Doha: Chairman of the Union of Radio and Television of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Member States, Dr. Amr Al Leithi, affirmed that the State of Qatar is among the most active and influential countries supporting all the Union's activities.
According to Qatar News Agency, Dr. Al Leithi, in an exclusive interview during his visit to Qatar, emphasized the depth of the relationship between the Union and Qatar and praised Doha's active role in supporting Arab and Islamic media. He noted Qatar's significant involvement in the Union's activities through its membership in various committees, the Executive Council, and the General Assembly.
During his visit, Dr. Al Leithi met with HE CEO of the Qatar Media Corporation (QMC) Sheikh Khalid bin Abdulaziz bin Jassim Al-Thani and other representatives of Qatari media institutions. These meetings focused on strengthening support and solidifying robust relations with Qatar.
Dr. Al Leithi highlighted Qatar's distinguished media infrastructure and history in media work, including visual, audio, electronic, and print media. An agreement was reached with QMC officials on matters related to 2027, which has been designated the Year of Arab Media, and the selection of Doha as Arab Media Capital for that year.
In this context, the Union plans to launch a major media festival in 2027 to celebrate innovators in media creativity and encourage media works supporting Arab and Islamic values. Qatar will sponsor this festival, which will include various forms of media.
Qatar will also chair the seventh session of the committee for Quran radio stations and host the next meeting of heads of Quran radio stations in September 2026. This meeting will honor prominent Quran reciters and leading figures in Quranic programming.
A scientific media forum will accompany the meeting, featuring workshops on artificial intelligence, media work in the digital age, and the challenges of verifying news accuracy. The Doha Forum is a continuation of a forum held in Fujairah, UAE, last year.
Dr. Al Leithi stressed that Qatar's sponsorship of these events reflects its commitment to supporting Arab and Islamic media and promoting media unity and integration. He praised the support of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt in revitalizing the Union's media presence through digital platforms and media production.
The Union, established in 1975, aims to support the Palestinian cause and currently includes 57 broadcasting and television organizations from OIC member states. It operates offices in Palestine, Senegal, Chad, Egypt, London, and soon in Doha, focusing on news and program exchange.
Dr. Al Leithi explained the Union's efforts in digital transformation, including a specialized AI sector providing news bulletins and the recent adoption of a Media Code of Ethics. The Union remains committed to elevating Arab and Islamic media, correcting the image of Islam, and advancing technological development through international cooperation.