Lachin: The future of news agencies in an era of rapid technological advancement and widespread misinformation was the focus of a roundtable discussion held Sunday in the city of Lachin, as part of the Third Shusha Global Media Forum. Held under the theme “AZERTAC at 105: Past, Present, and Future of Cooperation,” the session brought together more than 40 media leaders, including agency heads and representatives from around the world.
According to Jordan News Agency, discussions centered on how media institutions are adapting to contemporary challenges, the accelerating impact of artificial intelligence, and the evolving responsibilities of news agencies in ensuring factual reporting. Vugar Aliyev, Chairman of the Board of Azerbaijan’s state-run news agency AZERTAC, stressed that news agencies are becoming increasingly vital in today’s information landscape. He noted that combating misinformation and fake news has emerged as a core responsibility, with agencies now relying heavily on AI tools and verification technologies to identify manipulated images, videos, and misleading content.
“Fact-checking is no longer an option; it’s a necessity,” Aliyev said, underscoring the pivotal role agencies play in defending truth in a fragmented media environment. Representing the Jordan News Agency (Petra), News Director Jameel Al-Barmawi said the ongoing AI revolution has significantly transformed the media industry, altering how news is collected, written, published, and consumed. He argued that instead of viewing AI as a threat, agencies should embrace it as an opportunity to enhance their credibility and reach.
“With intelligent and responsible use of AI, agencies can continue to deliver accurate, in-depth journalism and maintain their place as trusted sources amid the surge of digital content,” Al-Barmawi said. He emphasized the growing need for media professionals to develop advanced fact-checking skills to help audiences navigate the overwhelming volume of information and disinformation circulating online. Misinformation, he warned, distorts public opinion and harms both individuals and societies.
Panelists agreed on the importance of training media personnel to keep pace with developments in AI and digital tools. They also highlighted the need to uphold ethical standards, expand cooperation among agencies, and promote journalist exchange programs to foster global dialogue and collaboration. Speakers concluded that while technology is evolving rapidly, no advancement, artificial intelligence included, can replace the human connection, emotion, and judgment that define responsible journalism.
As part of the forum’s cultural program, participants toured Lachin and visited Hotchaz Film, a multidisciplinary creative studio in the Karabakh region. Named after the iconic Hotchaz rock formations, the studio aims to support filmmakers with scouting, production guidance, and technical resources to capture the region’s natural and cultural landscape. Delegates also explored thematic sets at the studio, including a mock airplane, helicopter, prison, laboratory, and 3D green-screen setup. The visit concluded with a stop at the Gilabi Ceramics center, where traditional crafts inspired by Karabakh’s cultural heritage were on display.