Fuzhou:The 2026 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road commenced in Fuzhou, Fujian, China, focusing on enhancing understanding among media professionals and strengthening ties between media organizations from various countries. The opening ceremony addressed the media's role in a rapidly changing global environment, including the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence, regional collaboration, and global communication.
According to Philippines News Agency, the forum was attended by about 100 international, national, and regional organizations, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, 182 media organizations and institutions, and over 200 representatives from other countries. Representatives from the Philippines, such as Michael Alexander Ang, Director and Board Member of The Manila Times, participated in the event.
Ang highlighted the importance of such gatherings in enhancing communication and understanding between the Philippines and China. He noted the significance of the forum as a platform for exchanging knowledge, experience, and cooperation among participants. Ang emphasized the potential role of media in fostering understanding of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects, which aim to enhance cooperation in policy, infrastructure, trade, finance, and people-to-people connectivity.
The forum's theme was "Pursuing Common Understandings and Shared Aspirations along the Belt and Road," underscoring the media's role in informing the public and raising awareness about high-quality BRI cooperation aimed at common development and prosperity. The event also launched the "Belt and Road Media Cooperation Fuzhou Initiative," with The Manila Times as a member.
In addition to the main forum, a joint media tour will be conducted for delegates to explore different parts of China, further deepening mutual understanding. This initiative is based on the BRI proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013, which seeks to promote economic cooperation and connectivity among countries along the ancient Silk Road.
