FANA’s 51st General Assembly Kicks Off in Kuwait

The 51st General Assembly of the Federation of Arab News Agencies (FANA) commenced Monday, hosted by Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), with delegations and representatives from member agencies in attendance. The Qatar News Agency is participating with a delegation led by HE QNA Director-General Ahmed bin Saeed Al Rumaihi. The conference addresses various challenges facing Arab news agencies, aiming to exchange expertise, enhance media mechanisms, and strengthen their role in covering regional and international events. Acting Director-General of Emirates News Agency (WAM) and President of FANA, Dr. Jamal Al Kaabi, addressed the opening session of the 51st FANA General Assembly, emphasizing the difficult circumstances facing the region. He highlighted the global challenges that media outlets encounter, which directly affect their ability to shed light on the events and realities experienced by people in the region, especially the innocent victims in Gaza and Lebanon. Al Kaabi noted that the conference serves as a crucial platform to discuss vital issues impacting Arab media, fostering collaboration between agencies, and sharing ideas and expertise. The assembly will also tackle the effects of digital transformation on news agencies, explore adaptation strategies, and review ethical standards amidst the current challenges. Vice President of FANA and Director-General of Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Dr. Fatima Al Salem, highlighted the significance of hosting the conference in Kuwait, which will be the Arab Capital of Culture and Media in 2025. She stressed the importance of the event as evidence of a shared commitment to enhancing cooperation and exchanging knowledge among Arab news agencies. Al Salem further emphasized the role of Arab news agencies in conveying the truth with objectivity, accuracy, and dedication, reinforcing Arab solidarity during these challenging times. She pointed out that recent years have seen profound changes in the media landscape, with modern technology and artificial intelligence becoming es sential tools for news dissemination. She pointed out that Arab news agencies must embrace innovation, invest in skills, and prioritize knowledge exchange to ensure the accurate, professional delivery of information that builds trust with the public. FANA Secretary-General Dr. Farid Ayar said that taking a closer look at the Federation's operations reveals a positive outlook, despite the high ambitions. He highlighted FANA's advanced standing among regional and global federations, with active participation in the International News Media Association, where FANA has chaired six sessions since 2004. This global forum includes over 130 news agencies from around the world. Ayar added that FANA has established network of strong relationships with news agencies across Europe, Asia, and Latin America, as well as with regional and international organizations. On the Arab front, FANA has played a key role in training and developing both journalistic and technical staff at various Arab news agencies. It has also main tained close cooperation with the Arab League's media division, being one of the essential pillars of joint Arab media efforts. The annual General Assembly provides an opportunity for FANA members to exchange ideas and share experiences while addressing challenges facing Arab media. These challenges include increased competition from digital media and social platforms. Founded in 1975, FANA aims to foster cooperation and integration among Arab news agencies while enhancing the quality of media performance in line with global changes in the media landscape. The Federation seeks to present Arab news to the world in a reliable and effective manner, strengthen Arab media identity on the international stage, and leverage the latest technological advances, including digital solutions, to meet the needs of audiences in the digital age. Source: Qatar News Agency