Last week, the Croatian capital, picturesque and hospitable Zagreb, hosted a delegation of media representatives from Turkmenistan. The working visit was organized by the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat within the framework of a programme to support the development of journalism and strengthen international cooperation in the media sector.

The delegation included journalists from print and online publications, employees of television and radio companies, and representatives of independent media. Among the participants was a journalist from the Turkmenportal information portal.

Zagreb is a city where history meets modernity

Walking along the streets of Zagreb, Turkmen journalists noted the special atmosphere of the city, where Gothic architecture organically combines with modern quarters, art galleries and cozy cafes. It was this environment that became the ideal space for discussing the future of media – at the intersection of historical heritage and digital innovation.

Dialogue with the Croatian Foreign Ministry: from diplomacy to open communications

The key event of the program was a meeting at the Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs. The delegation discussed with the Croatian side the role of the foreign policy agency in information openness, interaction with the media and the development of public diplomacy.

Director General of the Department for Multilateral and Global Affairs, Mr. Sebastian Rogac, shared his experience and views on modern challenges in the state's communication policy. Particular attention was paid to issues of international image, transparency of information and digital transformation of press services. The parties also discussed the prospects for bilateral cooperation between Turkmen and Croatian journalists.

Media, Law and Digitalization: Visits to Key Institutions

At the Croatian Ministry of Culture and Media, delegates were introduced to the legal framework governing the activities of journalists, mechanisms for protecting freedom of expression and the sustainability of the media in the context of global crises.

At the Agency for Electronic Media (AEM), representatives of Turkmenistan’s media learned about the regulation of digital content, measures to combat fake news, and the development of media literacy, especially among young people. The visit also included a discussion on supporting independent editorial boards and local media initiatives.

The Croatian Parliament held a meeting with the press service to discuss the mechanisms of interaction between the legislative branch and the media and society as a whole. Croatian colleagues emphasized the importance of openness, professional ethics and audience trust.

Editorial life: an inside look at Croatian media

An important part of the visit was meetings at the editorial offices of leading Croatian media outlets – the Jutarnji List newspaper, the national news agency HINA and the public television HRT. Journalists shared their experiences, talked about editorial policy, development strategies, challenges of the digital age and adaptation to the rapidly changing media landscape.

Each of these institutions became a window into modern European journalism for the Turkmen delegation. Topics of particular interest included audience trust, multimedia platforms, data analytics and visual storytelling.

For the representatives of Turkmenistan, this visit was not only an opportunity to present their national media and establish contacts with their Croatian colleagues, but also a reminder of the main mission of journalism - to be a bridge. A bridge between cultures, countries and people. The delegation returned home with new ideas, useful contacts and inspiration for future work.