Honored to meet H.E. Phosy Keomanivong, Vice Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism of the Lao PDR, in Vientiane, Laos, to discuss upcoming regional media activities, including conferences and training initiatives. Our conversation centered on the importance of stronger regional collaboration in building media capacity and supporting professionals across the Asia-Pacific.
It was a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas on how institutions can work together to respond to the fast-changing needs of the media and information landscape. Regional dialogue remains essential as countries continue to strengthen communication systems, improve professional standards, and prepare media practitioners for new digital realities.
This year, AIBD is working with a clear focus on digital literacy awareness and on training female journalists across Asia-Pacific in cybersecurity reporting. These efforts are especially important at a time when journalists are navigating increasing digital risks, online harassment, misinformation, and rapidly evolving technology-driven challenges.
By investing in practical training and regional knowledge-sharing, we can help create safer and more resilient environments for journalism. Programs like these also contribute to empowering women in media with the tools, confidence, and strategies needed to report effectively in digital spaces.
I appreciate opportunities such as this meeting because they open the door to meaningful partnerships, shared learning, and forward-looking cooperation. Discussions with regional leaders and media stakeholders are vital for shaping initiatives that are both locally relevant and internationally connected.