Vanuatu took part in the 7th World Media Summit in Beijing, China, where more than 500 participants from 112 countries discussed the future of media in the age of artificial intelligence.
Held under the theme Media in the Intelligent Age, the summit focused on issues including the protection of media content, the use of AI in newsrooms and maintaining public trust in journalism.
Discussions stressed that while AI was increasingly becoming part of the media industry, core journalism principles needed to remain in place. These included verifying facts and sources, fairness, balance and ethical reporting.
Participants also emphasised that machines could not replace the human judgement required to produce reliable journalism.
AI and the Future of Newsrooms
Xinhua News Agency Editor-in-Chief Lyu Yangsong said artificial intelligence would continue to grow and become part of newsroom operations, but media organisations needed to remain committed to accurate reporting and promoting peace.
As part of the summit, Xinhua News Agency introduced what was described as the world’s first robot news anchor.
The event was hosted by Xinhua News Agency with media stakeholders and representatives from countries including Russia, India and Pakistan. It also coincided with the agency’s 95th anniversary.
Discussions included calls for more training in the use of artificial intelligence, with the United Nations also highlighting the need to strengthen AI training.
Participants also visited museums to learn more about China’s history.
