The Chairman of the National Association of Independent Media of Tajikistan (NANSMIT), Nouriddin Qarshiboyev, stated that Asia-Plus makes a worthy contribution to the development of freedom of speech in Tajikistan.
In an interview on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the Asia-Plus Media Group, he noted that Asia-Plus is the first news agency to begin operations in independent Tajikistan and has been “very consistently” fulfilling its primary mission of informing society for 30 years.
In his opinion, Asia-Plus is one of the media outlets at the forefront not only in Tajikistan but also in the Central Asian region. He added that “the information from this publication is trusted by both domestic organizations and international structures.”
“I think that in recent years, certain restrictions have also been created for Asia-Plus,” said the head of NANSMIT and added, “however, even under these conditions, Asia-Plus has not lost its identity as an independent media.”
The Tajik expert considers one of the main achievements of Asia-Plus, in addition to informational services, the ability to prepare analytical materials, video content, and their distribution on social networks. According to him, this is what allowed Asia-Plus not to lose its audience and take steps to increase it.
Nouriddin Qarshiboyev called Asia-Plus an active member of NANSMIT and stated that the staff of this media “have good experience in adhering to both legal and ethical norms of journalistic activity and treat them with respect.”
“Of course, there are challenges. When any problems arise, we solve them through advice and consultations. We hope that the staff of Asia-Plus will always adhere to legal and ethical norms. Respect for legal and ethical standards benefits the employees of this media because, in a very complex and tense geopolitical situation, audience trust in the media is extremely important, and to not lose this trust, I believe that Asia-Plus has both the opportunities and the desire,” emphasized Qarshiboyev.
The head of NANSMIT expressed satisfaction that the Asia-Plus team has more young people and noted that their organization is ready to conduct training and consultation courses for them. According to him, “the new generation of Asia-Plus should worthily continue the work of the middle and older generations.”
He congratulated the media group’s staff on their 30th anniversary and wished them “to be brave.”
