According to him, this diplomatic step will contribute to strengthening peace and stability in the Middle East.

The Ambassador noted the symbolism of holding the forum on the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake—a historical region of the Great Silk Road, which for centuries connected peoples with trade, cultural, and humanitarian ties.

In his speech, the diplomat emphasized that in the digital age, information is becoming a key factor in international relations.

According to him, trust between states today is largely formed through trust in information, and the media directly influence public sentiment, international perception, and the atmosphere of trust between states and societies.

Particular attention was paid to the challenges of the digital age.

These include the dissemination of false information, information manipulation, hate speech, radical content, and the use of digital platforms for destructive purposes. In this regard, Tajikistan advocates for the formation of a fair and responsible international information space, free from politicization, double standards, and confrontational rhetoric.

The Ambassador recalled the significance of the agreement signed in Bishkek in 2019 between the SCO member states on cooperation in the field of mass media, which created a practical basis for the exchange of information and the implementation of joint media projects. He also noted the relevance of the 2009 agreement on cooperation in the field of international information security.

Separately, the diplomat spoke about the work being carried out in Tajikistan to digitalize public administration, develop telecommunications infrastructure, electronic government services, and modern technologies.

As an example of regional cooperation, he cited the visits of Tajik specialists in the digitalization of healthcare to Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan to study best practices in the field of medical information systems, electronic services, and the protection of national data.

According to the ambassador, Tajikistan places special emphasis on information security, the development of digital television, multimedia platforms, and online journalism. Training young specialists in journalism, information technology, and digital communications remains an important focus.

In conclusion, the diplomat called on SCO member states to intensify direct contacts between news agencies and media organizations, expand the exchange of professional experience, and implement joint television, documentary, and digital projects.

He emphasized the need to jointly counter disinformation, extremist propaganda, and attempts to use digital platforms to destabilize public space. The Tajik side also supported the adoption of the forum’s final communiqué and called for the further development of professional cooperation, the implementation of joint media projects, and holding of similar forums on a regular basis.

The SCO media forum is taking place in Issyk-Kul region with participation of about 100 delegates.