In a handover ceremony held yesterday at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC), the Emirates News Agency (WAM) assumed the rotating presidency of the Federation of Arab News Agencies (FANA) from the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). The event took place during FANA’s 50th General Assembly Conference, which coincided with the second edition of the Global Media Congress, which concludes in the UAE capital today.
Mohammed Jalal Al Rayssi, Director-General of WAM and the newly appointed President of FANA, welcomed the participating agencies to the conference. He expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him by the heads and directors of the member Arab news agencies, recognising it as a pivotal step in advancing Arab media work.
Al Rayssi emphasised the immense responsibility borne by FANA, particularly in light of the rapid pace of global events, developments, and changes. He underscored the need for media mechanisms to adapt and keep pace with these transformations, striving to achieve the aspiratio
ns of Arab peoples and cater to the diverse preferences of Arab and international audiences.
The conference was attended by Dr. Farid Ayar, Secretary-General of FANA, and representatives of 14 news agencies from member states and various countries worldwide. During the gathering, Dr. Fahd Al Aqran, President of SPA, was honoured for his dedicated contributions during his presidency of the Union. Dr. Farid Ayar was also recognised for his unwavering efforts and commitment to fostering joint collaboration among Arab news agencies.
The conference proceedings encompassed two main sessions. The first session, chaired by Mohammed Jalal Al Rayssi, focused on reviewing the FANA’s annual report for 2023/2024. The second addressed the election of two vice presidents and members of the General Secretariat for the 50th session.
Additionally, the decisions taken by the General Assembly were approved, and cooperation agreements were signed by FANA and the Organisation of Asia-Pacific News Agencies (OANA).
Source: Emi
rates News Agency (WAM)