The BRICS Global Media Tour for executives of leading Indian media outlets has concluded in Kazan. The tour was organised by the TV BRICS International Media Network and the Republican Agency for Press and Mass Communications “Tatmedia”. Participants not only discussed current issues in the media industry but also praised the hospitality of the Russian Republic of Tatarstan, noting the cultural closeness between the two countries.

“Kazan is really lovely; people look very pleasing and very welcoming. The air is very clean, and the food – I love the food,” shared Thakur Shuja Ul-Ha, Planning Editor at Press Trust of India (PTI).

His colleague, Janki Dave, Head of the Video News Team at The Print, appreciated the opportunity to engage in personal discussions with other tour participants. The visit also provided a platform for exchanging experiences with entrepreneurs and students from Kazan Federal University (KFU).

The delegation took part in a discussion on international media cooperation during the business forum “TIME: Russia – India”. Mutual Efficiency. At the session, participants discussed how the media use artificial intelligence technology and counter the spread of fake information.

“We fully understand that the media bears its share of responsibility for what happens in the global world. We believe that our cooperation will help make the world a better and safer place and that together we can make a significant contribution to strengthening the friendship between our countries (Russia and India – Ed.),” said Aidar Salimgaraev, Head of Tatmedia, a partner of the TV BRICS network.

The introduction to life in Tatarstan went beyond the business agenda. The guests attended a friendly cricket match between the Russian and Indian teams and visited the Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology at KFU. Participants pointed out cultural parallels between the languages of BRICS countries.

“I noticed that many things in Kazan feel familiar to me. For example, 'Rahmat' (which means ‘thank you’ in Turkic languages – Ed.) in Urdu means ‘blessing’ – the meaning is very close,” said Shuja Ul-Haq.

Representatives of the Indian media emphasised the importance of more frequent interaction between peoples of different countries. According to Janki Dave, such cultural exchanges during media tours can serve as an example for other BRICS+ members.

“I think BRICS was formed with the idea of multicultural exchange and has had a focus on the Global South. So I feel that other countries should take a cue,” she noted.

The BRICS Global Media Tour is a regular project of the TV BRICS International Media Network for media industry leaders from BRICS+ countries. Its aim is to foster practical cooperation among media representatives at major international events.

This year, Kazan welcomed participants from Asian News International (ANI), Press Trust of India (PTI), The Print, Mathrubhumi Group, Sadhna News, Indian Express, and Times of India.

Photo: TV BRICS