It’s wonderful to see that under the leadership of the new Government, “media freedom” in Fiji has finally been restored and journalists are able to carry out their duties without any restrictions.
This was highlighted by Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD) CEO and Secretariat-Director, Philomena Gnanapragasam during her first official visit to Fiji this week.
Gnanapragasam says it is also great to see people are able to exercise their right to “freedom of expression” in the democratic society of Fiji.
She says AIBD would like to collaborate with Fiji through opportunities aimed at the development of digital broadcasting technology and Fiji’s information and media sector.
She adds AIBD’s work towards women’s leadership and empowerment through training programs is also an area of potential cooperation with Fiji.
Gnanapragasam says her visit to Fiji is an opportunity to meet with the representatives of various media organisations for mutual cooperation.
In welcoming the delegation, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lenora Qereqeretabua acknowledged AIBD’s commitment to work with Fiji primarily in areas of media industry development, capacity building and training, women’s leadership and development.
She also welcomed the AIBD’s interest to host the 2024 AIBD General Conference in Fiji and also provide training and awareness programs on the importance of media and their role in the national development.
Meanwhile, the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Advisor from New Zealand, Dr Amal Punchihewa also joined in the meeting.
The discussions focused on new partnership initiatives through which AIBD can support Fiji Government’s national needs and priorities.
The Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD) was established in August 1977 under the auspices of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).
