Dr. Jamal Al Kaabi, Director-General of the National Media Office, spearheaded the UAE delegation at the 54th session of the Council of Arab Information Ministers. Held in Manama, Bahrain, the council brought together information ministers from across the Arab world to discuss media cooperation and address pressing regional and global challenges.
Dr. Al Kaabi emphasized the UAE's commitment to fostering a robust and responsible media landscape under the guidance of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He highlighted the importance of Arab media adapting to the rapid advancements of the information age and utilizing its power to drive positive societal change.
The council session focused on enhancing collaboration between Arab media outlets. Discussions centered on content sharing, joint media productions, and capacity building initiatives for journalists across the region. Participants emphasized the need for a unified Arab media voice to effectively counter misrepresentation and promote a positive image of the Arab world on the global stage.
Cybersecurity emerged as another key theme. The council acknowledged the growing threats posed by disinformation campaigns and online manipulation tactics. Ministers explored strategies to bolster cybersecurity measures within Arab media institutions and equip journalists with the necessary skills to combat online threats.
The session also addressed the ongoing Palestinian cause. Ministers reaffirmed their unwavering support for the Palestinian people and condemned attempts to distort the narrative surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They underscored the role of Arab media in raising awareness about the plight of Palestinians and advocating for a just solution.
The UAE delegation, which included Maitha Majid Al Suwaidi, CEO of Strategy and Media Policy at the UAE Media Council, actively participated in the discussions. Dr. Al Kaabi's leadership role at the council reflects the UAE's growing prominence as a regional hub for media and communication.
The 54th session of the Council of Arab Information Ministers concluded with a renewed commitment from member states to strengthen media cooperation and harness its potential to address the evolving needs of the Arab world. The collaborative efforts aim to empower Arab media to play a more influential role in shaping public discourse and fostering regional and international understanding.