Somali Information Minister Urges Responsible AI Use in Media at Beijing Summit

Somalia's Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Abdifatah Qasim Mohamud, has called for greater international cooperation to ensure artificial intelligence contributes to reliable information and professional journalism. Speaking at the 7th World Media Summit in Beijing, China, the minister emphasized the need for practical initiatives to strengthen journalists' skills and uphold professional media ethics. The summit focuses on AI's impact on the media industry and ways to strengthen international cooperation.

The minister stressed that accuracy in reporting and editorial responsibility must remain central to the transformation and modernisation of the media industry. He highlighted the importance of investing in journalists' professional training and modernising media services. This is particularly crucial as AI increasingly influences how information is produced, distributed and accessed. The minister's remarks reflect the challenges and opportunities facing journalism amid rapid technological developments.

Abdifatah also addressed the state and future of Somalia's media sector. He emphasized the need for improving the country's media infrastructure and technological resources. Somalia is ready to engage in international partnerships focused on knowledge-sharing, information verification and implementing projects with measurable outcomes. This proactive approach aims to enhance the country's media landscape and ensure access to credible information.

The 7th World Media Summit has brought together media leaders and representatives from around the world. The summit provides a platform for international media organisations to discuss emerging challenges and opportunities facing journalism. Key topics include the impact of AI on the media industry and ways to strengthen international cooperation.

The minister thanked the Chinese government, Xinhua News Agency and the summit's organising secretariat for hosting the gathering. He appreciated the opportunity for Somalia to engage with global media leaders and contribute to the discussion on AI's role in the media. This engagement reflects Somalia's commitment to enhancing its media sector and ensuring access to reliable information.

The World Media Summit is an important event for the global media community. It allows media leaders to share experiences, discuss challenges and explore opportunities for cooperation. The summit's focus on AI and its impact on the media industry is particularly relevant in today's rapidly changing media landscape.

The call for responsible AI use in media is a significant aspect of the summit. Abdifatah's remarks highlight the need for a balanced approach to technological advancements in the media. By emphasizing the importance of accuracy, editorial responsibility and professional training, the minister underscored the need for a well-regulated media environment that prioritizes credible information and public trust.

Key points

• Somali Information Minister Abdifatah Qasim Mohamud calls for global cooperation on AI in media.
• The minister emphasizes the need for practical initiatives to strengthen journalists' skills and uphold professional media ethics.
• Somalia is ready to engage in international partnerships focused on knowledge-sharing and information verification.