Syria took part in the 2026 International Strategic Communication Summit, known as STRATCOM, opened Friday in Istanbul with participation from 36 countries. Syrian Minister of Information Hamza al-Mustafa represented the country at the gathering, which brought together officials and experts in media and strategic communication.
Organized by the Turkish Presidency’s Directorate of Communications, the summit centers on the theme “Disorder in the International System: Crises, Narratives, and the Search for Order.” It serves as a major platform for dialogue on global communication strategies, crisis response tools and efforts to strengthen mutual understanding among nations. Syria’s participation reflects its engagement with international forums focused on media development and strategic communication at a time of evolving global challenges.
Talks Focus on Media Cooperation With Turkey
On the sidelines of the summit, Mustafa met with Burhanuddin Duran to discuss strengthening bilateral media cooperation. The discussions highlighted opportunities to draw on Turkey’s experience in government communication and to address shared concerns such as hate speech and media disinformation.
The meeting also addressed the status of Syrian journalists working in Turkey. Both sides emphasized the value of their professional experience and explored ways to support their integration into Arab and Turkish media environments. Officials discussed improving organization and regulation of journalistic work to support professional standards and contribute to broader media development.
Debates Address Narratives and Digital Transformation
Summit sessions focus on key issues shaping the future of strategic communication. Participants are examining how media narratives influence global public opinion and how governments and institutions can respond to international crises through effective communication strategies.
Discussions also explore the rapid pace of technological change and its impact on media practices. Digital transformation, evolving platforms and the spread of information across borders remain central themes throughout the event.
Engagement Signals Broader Media Objectives
Mustafa joined second-day activities opened by Hakan Fidan, where speakers addressed regional and international challenges. The summit drew over 150 senior figures from about 37 countries and five international organizations, reflecting the growing importance of strategic communication in a shifting global environment.
Syria’s involvement signals an effort to engage with international expertise in communication and media while contributing to discussions on global narratives surrounding crises. It also underscores an interest in strengthening cooperation with Turkey on issues such as regulating media work and countering disinformation.
The summit takes place as countries navigate rapid political and technological changes, increasing the need for effective communication tools that respond to evolving realities and support informed public discourse.
