Key Themes and Outcomes of the 2024 Belt and Road Media Forum in Chengdu

On Wednesday, 28th August, the 2024 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road convened in Chengdu, the capital of Southwest China’s Sichuan Province. This significant event, themed “Enhancing Media Cooperation for Common Development,” brought together over 200 media executives, editors, and reporters from 191 organisations across 76 countries, including representatives from the Iraq International News Agency (IINA), Dr. Susan Hameed Majeed and Yasmine Goumri. The gathering also included officials, experts, scholars, and business representatives, underscoring the global importance of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in fostering international cooperation.

The forum was inaugurated with a speech by Li Shulei, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the publicity department of the CPC Central Committee. In his address, Li emphasised the pivotal role of media in the Belt and Road Initiative, which has seen substantial growth and delivered tangible results since its inception in 2013. According to Li, the BRI has not only enhanced global connectivity but also opened avenues for both individual and collective prosperity, making it a cornerstone of international development.

Delegates at the forum echoed Li’s sentiments, highlighting the critical role media plays in showcasing the outcomes of the BRI and facilitating practical cooperation. They called for increased collaboration among media organisations to tell the stories of BRI’s win-win cooperation and its contributions to the global community. Additionally, the delegates stressed the importance of addressing challenges posed by the rapid advancement of information technology, advocating for enhanced digital and intelligent media capabilities to further promote connectivity.

Another focal point of the forum was the call for stronger media cooperation and cultural exchanges. Delegates emphasised the need to explore and highlight the enduring charm and modern relevance of each nation’s history and culture. By doing so, they believe that media can foster greater understanding and stronger connections among the people of the world.

The event was hosted by the People’s Daily, the CPC Sichuan Provincial Committee, and the People’s Government of Sichuan Province. A key outcome of the forum was the issuance of the Belt and Road Media Cooperation: Chengdu Initiative, which outlines the future direction for media collaboration under the BRI framework. Additionally, the third Council Meeting of the Belt and Road News Network was held, further cementing the forum’s role as a crucial platform for international media cooperation.

As the Belt and Road Initiative continues to evolve, the 2024 Media Cooperation Forum in Chengdu stands as a testament to the growing importance of media in bridging cultures and fostering global development. Through enhanced cooperation, media organisations, including the Iraq International News Agency (IINA), can play a crucial role in shaping the narrative of the BRI and promoting a more interconnected and prosperous world.