The recent 5th World Media Summit in Guangzhou, China, saw the participation of Prof. Harendra Kariyawasam, Chairman of the Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Limited (ANCL), representing Sri Lanka. In his address, Prof. Kariyawasam emphasized the historical ties between China and Sri Lanka, citing the ancient Silk Road and Maritime Silk Route as conduits for the exchange of ideas, art, and philosophy.
Highlighting the profound historical connections between the two nations, Prof. Kariyawasam mentioned the discovery of Chinese artifacts in Sri Lanka and vice versa, underscoring a deep appreciation for each other’s heritage. He stressed the importance of international cultural communication and cooperation in the 21st century, asserting that both nations are actively seeking growth through global media cooperation.
Addressing the rapid development of new media, Prof. Kariyawasam acknowledged its role in accelerating globalization and reshaping societal connections. He highlighted the impact of digital communication, breaking down barriers of space and emphasizing that control over the creation and spread of messages is no longer confined to specific entities but is now a responsibility shared by all.
Moreover, he emphasized that new media, coupled with globalization, leads to a shrinking world, compresses time and space, fosters global connectivity, and accelerates local and global competition or cooperation. This integration reshapes societal boundaries and intensifies social exchanges at both micro and macro levels.
Prof. Kariyawasam stressed the enduring role of literature, cinema, and journalism in fostering understanding among diverse cultures throughout history and in the contemporary era. He highlighted the importance of this cultural exchange in bridging societal gaps, even amid advancements in artificial intelligence reshaping the media landscape.
Expressing gratitude to China for preserving the invaluable connection between the two nations, Prof. Kariyawasam conveyed hopes for the continued growth of the friendship between China and Sri Lanka. He concluded by urging collaborative efforts to ensure that the spirit of cooperation and harmony endures for future generations.
The 5th World Media Summit focused on various themes such as bolstering confidence, embracing changes in media technology, pioneering innovation in digital age markets, and seeking growth through global media cooperation. The summit’s joint statement highlighted the need for ethical journalism, objective reporting, and global media cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by technological advancements and globalization. Established in 2009, the WMS continues to serve as a crucial forum for global media entities to collaborate and shape the trajectory of media discourse worldwide.
