Sergey Lavrov welcomes participants of OANA General Assembly, expresses support for just journalism
Saint Petersburg, May 19, AZERTAC
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov addressed the organizers, participants, and guests of the 19th General Assembly of the Organization of Asia-Pacific News Agencies (OANA), held in Saint Petersburg, via video message. The meeting was organized by TASS News Agency on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF).
Azerbaijan is represented at the General Assembly by Elshan Shahbalayev, Head of the Global Communications and Information Department of the Azerbaijan State News Agency (AZERTAC).
In his address, the Russian Foreign Minister emphasized that OANA, the largest association of news agencies, has for many years provided a platform for media outlets from Eurasia, the Asia-Pacific region, and the Middle East to exchange experience. He noted that the organization plays an important role in ensuring the accurate coverage of international events, promoting just journalistic standards, and protecting the professional rights of media workers.
Lavrov also highlighted the rich agenda of the General Assembly, which includes key issues such as combating fake news and disinformation, and the integration of artificial intelligence technologies into the media. He expressed confidence that the event would be productive and contribute to fostering non-political dialogue among media outlets, while also strengthening trust and mutual understanding on international issues.
In addition to plenary sessions, participants will meet with Russian politicians and public figures, and take part in a tour of the city of Saint Petersburg.
OANA was established on December 22, 1961, in Bangkok on the initiative of the United Nations and UNESCO. It is the world's largest regional media organization, aiming to facilitate the direct and free exchange of news among news agencies in a region that is home to more than half of the world's population. Today, OANA comprises 41 news agencies from 33 countries. In addition to members from the Asia-Pacific region, the organization includes agencies from the Middle East and several CIS countries. The General Assembly - the organization’s highest governing body - convenes every three years. Traditionally, the agency that hosts the General Assembly is elected as the next Chairman of OANA.
Farida Abdullayeva
Special correspondent
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