The Thai Journalists Association (TJA) and Myanmar Journalists Association (MJA) signed a seven-point memorandum of understanding in Bangkok, Thailand on Sept. 4. The memorandum that will strengthen press relations between the two countries was drafted as part of a five day conference between delegates from the MJA and TJA.. In what both groups are hailing as a historic demonstration of regional press cooperation, the memorandum is intended to promote cross-national press cooperation and the exchange of knowledge and resources pertaining to mass media. TJA President Pradit Ruangdit and head of the MJA delegation Aung Hia Tun were several of its signatories.
Both groups pledged to collaborate towards promoting constructive and accurate journalism in their respective countries. They also agreed to participate in international and regional press activities such as those organized by ASEAN and Association of South East Asian Countries. The two countries will work together to promote and develop training for young journalists and exchange knowledge and media values in the future.
During the conference, TJA members shared their opinion and insight towards Myanmar’s struggle for press freedom, noting that recent reforms by the Myanmar government signify an important era of change for journalism in the country. The TJA also discussed the country’s current media censorship practices in light of Thailand’s long fight for press freedom.
Thailand ranks 135 in global press freedom, according to Reporters Without Borders’ Press Freedom Index 2013. Myanmar sits 17 countries behind at 152.
