The goal of the conference organized by the Russia – Islamic World strategic vision group was to discuss and coordinate a shared information policy in fighting Islamic extremism.
The third International media forum "Journalists from Muslim Countries Against Extremism" has taken place at Moscow’s President Hotel.
The conference was organized by the Russia – Islamic World think tank chaired by Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov.
This year’s conference was attended by 36 journalists from 18 countries. The plenary session was opened by a speech from the Group’s Coordinator Veniamin Popov.
Extremist organizations have become weaker but they are expanding into Afghanistan, Yemen, and North Africa. This is very dangerous. This is why journalists need to mount counter-propaganda efforts," said Mr Popov.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov addressed the meeting with his welcoming remarks.
"Journalists from Muslim countries are in the vanguard of the fight against the spread of radical ideas. This is why the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs have maintained active contacts with Muslim journalists from Russia and abroad," Mr Bogdanov said.
The Mufti of Moscow Albir Krganov called for an end to the fake jihad.
“We are gravely concerned with the possibility that some media might become puppets of extremist organizations. How can we better protect journalists from their influence? We need a common set of guidelines to cover events involving different ethnic and religious groups. We Re-training is one option. We are ready to submit our proposals to the Public Chamber,” said the mufti.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"