Some time ago, the Azerbaijan-Georgia Media Forum on the topic of "The Role of Media in Forming Public Trust and Information Security" was held in Baku.
The purpose of holding the forum was to deepen cooperation in the media sector between the two countries, increase reliability in the information environment, and correctly assess security challenges. Undoubtedly, such forums are extremely important for building mutual trust.
It is interesting to consider whether a joint Azerbaijan-Armenia-Georgia media forum could be held in the next stage.
Speaking to Modern.az on this matter, Miranda Aqanezova, editor-in-chief of Georgia's GeorgiaPress.org website and a journalist of Armenian origin, stated that holding an Azerbaijan-Armenia-Georgia media forum is important.
"The role of journalists in the peace process is critically important, especially in the context of the complex and deep-rooted conflict that the peoples of Armenia and Azerbaijan have experienced for many years. Journalists should not only serve as an information bridge but also, in a certain sense, as a source of support and hope for people striving for justice and peace. Therefore, I consider the holding of an Azerbaijan-Armenia-Georgia media forum not only possible but also essential. Incidentally, I positively evaluate the Azerbaijan-Georgia media forum because topical issues were discussed there".
The journalist, stating that she closely follows the speeches of the Azerbaijani leader, emphasized the importance of regular meetings among media representatives.
"Ilham Aliyev's statement regarding the removal of restrictions on the transit of goods sent to Armenia through Azerbaijani territory is promising. This is an important step towards the normalization of regional relations. Journalists from our countries should also meet regularly, similar to the meetings of the commissions led by Deputy Prime Ministers – Shahin Mustafayev and Mher Grigoryan. The delivery of Azerbaijani oil products to Armenia via Georgia is further proof of how necessary it is to hold a joint trilateral media forum”.
Finally, the Armenian journalist spoke about her accidental visit to Baku this summer and the pleasant reception she encountered:
"This summer, I accidentally found myself in Baku due to a flight change. I was told that I was the first journalist with an Armenian surname to arrive in the Azerbaijani capital before the meeting between Pashinyan and Aliyev. Despite the advice from some colleagues to avoid flying to Baku and the mixed feelings I had before the trip, I was surprised by the extremely warm reception I received at the airport. I was even offered to tour the city. As the head of a Georgian delegation of children, I decided to explore Baku together with the schoolchildren. Despite having an Armenian surname, the attitude towards me, both in hotels and on the street, was very friendly."
