by Mustafa Kuleli
General Secretary of Press Council of Turkey, Writer, Turkey
The 2023 Belt and Road Journalists Forum, held in Beijing, convened nearly 100 heads of journalists’ organizations and media representatives from over 40 countries and regions. Hosted by the All-China Journalists Association (ACJA), the forum, themed “Building a Beautiful Silk Road, Jointly Promoting Prosperity and Development,” facilitated in-depth discussions and exchanges.
As a first-time visitor to China, I am pleased to share my initial observations. The forum organizers curated an enriching and eye-opening experience. The event underscored the importance of deepening exchange and cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) framework, with a shared commitment to reporting on the BRI by aligning with contemporary trends and public interest.
During my week in Beijing, I interacted with the people of China—everyday citizens who were warm, friendly, and welcoming. This firsthand experience is invaluable, particularly given the sometimes distorted portrayal of China in certain Western media outlets. It is imperative to present an accurate picture of daily life in China to dispel misconceptions and counter misinformation.
The forum’s discussions emphasized the principles of openness and inclusiveness, mutual learning, mutual benefit, and mutual understanding. These principles are not merely rhetoric; they are actively practiced and promoted through the interactions I observed and participated in. The commitment to preserving traditional culture while embracing innovation and promoting the coexistence of diverse civilizations is truly admirable.
Both Chinese and international forum participants expressed their dedication to achieving consistent and sustainable progress in high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. The sense of unity and shared purpose was evident, and it was inspiring to witness media professionals from diverse backgrounds collaborating towards common objectives.
Journalist organizations from various countries also discussed the importance of establishing a cooperation mechanism for international journalists. By uniting media workers globally, we can collectively create a better future and contribute to peace and development. The forum underscored the power of media in shaping perceptions and our responsibility to tell authentic stories.
Reflecting on my time here, my modest suggestion for the future of this initiative is to expand the network further. By incorporating more voices and perspectives, we can enhance exchange, communication, and cooperation even more effectively. The Belt and Road Initiative has the potential to connect and uplift communities across continents, and media plays a crucial role in this process.
As I depart China, I carry with me a newfound appreciation for its people and culture. The 2023 Belt and Road Journalists Forum was not just an event but an experience that highlighted the importance of collaboration and understanding in our interconnected world. I eagerly anticipate continuing the dialogue and working alongside my international colleagues to build a more inclusive and prosperous future.
*The views and opinions expressed in the articles are solely those of the individual authors and do not reflect the position of the Secretariat of the Belt and Road Journalist Network.
*The views and opinions expressed in the articles are solely those of the individual authors and do not reflect the position of the Secretariat of the Belt and Road Journalist Network.