Baghdad: The second day of the fourth Arab Media Conference commenced today in Baghdad. The conference is organized by the Iraqi Media Network under the auspices of the Arab Broadcasting Union. It was attended by advisors to the Prime Minister, the President of the Arab Journalists Federation, and the head of the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate, Mu’ayyad al-Lami, alongside Iraqi academic and media figures and Arab decision-makers.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, during the inauguration ceremony, Karim Hammadi, Chairman of the Iraqi Media Network, emphasized the significance of hosting the conference in Baghdad. He stated that the event marks a pivotal moment in Iraq’s journey towards regional openness, with participation from over 150 Arab media professionals and journalists. Hammadi highlighted Iraq’s recent political, economic, and urban transformations, and the Iraqi Media Network’s role in showcasing these advancements.

Hammadi acknowledged Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s support for the media, underlining his commitment to press freedom as a cornerstone of state-building. The Prime Minister has extended considerable support to the Iraqi Media Network, recognizing its crucial role and the need for continual development. The conference, he noted, focuses on climate change, a pressing global challenge.

The Prime Minister’s representative, Aref Al-Saadi, advisor for cultural affairs, expressed Baghdad’s pride in hosting discussions on climate change, a critical issue. He called for an Arab media alliance to tackle climate and environmental challenges, underscoring the media’s role beyond news dissemination, as a policy influencer.

Mohammed Fahd Al-Harthi, President of the Arab States Broadcasting Union, highlighted the media’s capacity to shape public opinion and promote sustainable environmental practices. He stressed the urgency of addressing climate change and announced plans to develop an environmental media charter at the conference, outlining strategies for combating climate change.