Historic Arrival of KGK Delegation Sets Stage for Unprecedented Media Conference in Uzbekistan
The KGK (Global Journalists Association) delegation made a grand entrance at the University of Uzbekistan, greeted with a culturally rich ceremony featuring Uzbek crafts, traditional cuisine, and regional gifts. This vibrant welcome highlights Uzbekistan’s commitment to fostering international media diplomacy.
Leadership Addresses the Significance of Media Collaboration and Education
In a pivotal speech, University Rector Prof. Dr. Sherzodkhon Kudratkhuzha emphasized the country’s pioneering role in global journalism education. “Our university has set a precedent as the first of its kind worldwide,” he proclaimed. Kudratkhuzha expressed pride in hosting the Global Journalists Council (KGK) and underscored the importance of Turkish media, quoting Atatürk: “How happy I am to call myself a Turk.”
Celebrating Cultural and Media Ties: A Moment of Gratitude
Following the speeches, KGK President Mehmet Ali Dim and veteran journalist Yavuz Donat presented a gratitude plaque to Rector Kudratkhuzha, symbolizing mutual respect. Dim lauded Uzbekistan for opening its arms to journalists from Turkey and across the Turkic world, affirming the unity achieved through media collaboration.
Themed Panel: “Where Is Media Heading?”
The conference’s first session was moderated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Olimov Farruhbek. Leading discussions was Prof. Dr. Levent Eraslan, head of the KGK Advisory Board, who spotlighted the future of new media and journalism education. Eraslan praised Uzbekistan’s innovative journalism programs, suggesting they serve as a blueprint for others globally. “This model should be adopted worldwide, and the successful media organizations like KGK are shaping the evolving media landscape,” he explained.
Emerging Media Trends and the Shifting News Landscape
Merih Ak, a KGK Council member and NTV Ege regional manager, shared insights into the changing nature of news. He noted the rise of short, engaging news snippets and social media stories, emphasizing that audiences increasingly favor quick, digestible content. “The concept of ‘vertical news’ prevails, with social media serving as a primary source for breaking news,” Ak stated.
Bridging Media Gaps: Turkic World’s Communication Challenges
Nigar İbrahimova, a prominent Azerbaijani TV journalist, addressed the disconnect among Turkic media outlets. She highlighted the need for broader coverage of Turkish media’s interest in Turkic nations’ affairs and urged media outlets in Turkey to prioritize regional news, fostering closer cultural and informational ties.
Media Diplomacy: An Instrument of National and Diaspora Relations
In the second session, moderated by Mehmet Ali Dim, key figures were presented on the importance of media diplomacy. Vatan Öz, representing the UK branch of KGK, shared the challenges of running a Turkish-language newspaper in London for 25 years, emphasizing the significance of state support for diaspora media. “We face discrimination, but our dedication to representing Turkish culture keeps us resilient,” Öz explained.
Similar discussions explored the role of media cooperation among Turkish countries. Elşad Eyvazlı from Azerbaijan underlined the necessity of establishing dedicated social media platforms for Turkic nations, to counter Western-centric platforms and promote regional narratives effectively.
On the diplomatic front, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Yüce, representing the Turkish Embassy in Tashkent, emphasized that media diplomacy now plays a critical role in soft power strategies. “Media engagement surpasses traditional diplomacy, shaping international perceptions and fostering trust among nations,” he said.
The dialogue extended to the ongoing collaboration between academic institutions and media entities. Ali Han Pehlivan, owner of a prominent Cypriot media group, discussed the necessity for universities to adapt their communication curricula, especially amidst declining enrollment in traditional communication programs. “Universities must innovate and form partnerships to prepare students for the future of media,” he urged.
Official Agreements and Media Coverage
The summit concluded with the signing of a bilateral cooperation protocol between the Uzbek Foreign Ministry’s World News Agency and KGK, paving the way for joint projects, training, and shared content. Media representatives from Azerbaijan, Austria, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus participated in signing additional memoranda, strengthening regional media ties.
Media in Action: Live Broadcasts and Cultural Experiences
Prior to the panels, TRT Avaz and several Uzbek TV channels interviewed Mehmet Ali Dim. These outlets broadcast snippets of the proceedings, amplifying the event’s reach. Additionally, the entire conference was recorded for archival and educational purposes.
Culinary Diplomacy: Traditional Uzbek Dinner Signifies Solidarity
The event wrapped up with a communal dinner at Beş Kazan Restaurant, a renowned Uzbek eatery owned by Ibrahim and Ismail Kadıoğlu. This traditional feast epitomized the cultural synergy and camaraderie that underpins regional media collaborations. The delegates’ next stop is Samarkand, promising continued vibrant exchanges among Turkic nations.
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