Riz Khan

Broadcaster, journalist USA

A big welcome back to all of you who’ve been to the EAMF before – and warm greetings to those of you coming to the event for the first time.

The fact that the EAMF is now into its fourth year only goes to show how this remarkable gathering has gone from strength to strength. It continues to attract key international speakers and participants from around the world, bringing them together to focus on the issues affecting this region day by day.

The EAMF has been a venue for heads of states, political figures, academics and intellectuals… and, of course, the media. No region – no country – can simply bury its head in the sand and hope that the rest of the planet will go away. Major events are taking place on a daily basis, and whether it is a matter of following natural disasters such as the deadly tsunami in Asia at the end of last year, or the assassination of Lebanon’s charismatic political figure, Rafik Hariri, in February, the media is there and plays a central role in shaping society.
From America’s military role on the world stage, to the on-going battle against religious and political extremists, the debates rage on with passion, taking the points of view from the small screen into the living rooms of ordinary people. The media connects nations, cultures and religion.

That is why it is so encouraging to see the EAMF playing a central role in shaping the media.

Once again, we are here together in Almaty for a forum that pushes the boundaries, asks the right questions, and looks for tough truths.

It’s great to have you with us.