Baku: The III Forum titled ‘Public Processes in the Media Sphere’ has been held, organized by the Media Development Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, APA reports. The event featured panel discussions focusing on ‘Media Agenda in the Year of Urban Development and Architecture,’ ‘Unexpected Risks in the Digital Environment: Joint Fight Against Harmful Information,’ and ‘Digital Development: Media, Artificial Intelligence, and Innovation.’ The forum concluded with a session addressing participants’ questions.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Ahmad Ismayilov, Executive Director of the Media Development Agency, highlighted the transformative impact of the ‘Smart city’ and ‘Smart village’ projects in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur during his opening speech. He emphasized the effectiveness of the communication model tested during COP29, which demonstrated the power of collaboration between the state, media, and society in addressing global challenges. Ismayilov expressed confidence in achieving even greater professional success during WUF13.
Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport, Samaddin Asadov, discussed the role of broadband internet networks in enhancing access to information nationwide, along with the efficiency brought by artificial intelligence tools in data processing. Firudin Gurbanov, Deputy Minister of Science and Education, reported that 63% of schools have internet access, with plans to extend coverage to all educational institutions.
The forum also included a panel session on the ‘Year of Urban Planning and Architecture,’ underscoring the significance of declaring 2026 as a pivotal year for urban development in Azerbaijan. This declaration is seen as a continuation of ongoing reforms and a testament to Azerbaijan’s international stature, further emphasized by hosting WUF13. The session highlighted the need for active media participation to address increasing challenges. The forum continues with additional panel sessions.