Head of the Iraqi Media Network: Baghdad Has Once Again Become the Center of Arab Media
The Head of the Iraqi Media Network, Karim Hammadi, affirmed on Thursday that the convening of the 4th Arab Media Conference in Baghdad marks an important milestone in Iraq's path toward greater engagement with its Arab and regional surroundings. He emphasized that Baghdad has once again become a hub for Arab media.
In his speech during the opening of the 4th Arab Media Conference in Baghdad, attended by an Iraqi News Agency (INA) reporter, Hammadi stated 'With pride and honor, we celebrate today the convening of the 4th Arab Media Conference on the soil of Baghdad – a city that has regained its vitality, risen from the ashes of challenges, and returned as a center for Arab dialogue, a platform for intellectual exchange, and a stage that reflects the authenticity of history, the depth of the present, and the aspirations of the future.'
He added that 'Baghdad's hosting of this major media event, with the participation of more than 150 Arab journalists and media professionals, reflects the growing confidence in the role played by the Iraqi Media Network as a national institution committed to fostering a realistic media discourse that portrays a thriving Iraq aiming for a better future.'
Hammadi noted that 'Iraq has witnessed significant transformations in recent years on political, economic, and infrastructural levels. The media particularly the Iraqi Media Network has played a vital role in accompanying this progress, highlighting achievements, and conveying a balanced and responsible image of the country's realities.'
He pointed out that 'the conference is being held with the direct support of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani, who has consistently been a true patron of national media, believing in press freedom and its role as a partner in state-building and reflecting public sentiment.'
He explained that 'the exceptional support provided by the Prime Minister to the network has contributed to a comprehensive qualitative shift, whether in terms of media content, infrastructure, or the development of professional staff,' affirming that 'the network's successful coverage of the recent Arab Summit stands as a living example of the maturity of national media institutions.'
Hammadi also highlighted that 'the conference gives special attention to climate change, as it is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity,' stressing the 'need for advanced media awareness and effective tools to promote environmental culture and encourage communities to act responsibly and engage with relevant initiatives.'
He further said that 'Baghdad today is not only hosting the conference but is also sending a clear message confirming Iraq's return to its regional surroundings and its readiness to become a center of cultural, media, and intellectual influence,' noting that 'the Iraqi Media Network will remain at the heart of this project, committed to professionalism and determined to continue developing its tools and expanding its partnerships.'
Hammadi concluded his remarks by welcoming the conference participants, expressing gratitude for their presence, their love for Iraq, and their commitment to Arab media unity and professionalism. He also extended his thanks to the Arab States Broadcasting Union for its significant role in organizing the event.
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