New York/Belgrade: The SAARC Journalist Forum (SJF) and ICJ Global Media Group LLC, operator of the Intercontinental Connection of Journalists (ICJ), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a three-year strategic partnership aimed at strengthening international cooperation among journalists, promoting press freedom, and expanding professional opportunities for media professionals across South Asia and beyond.

The agreement was signed by Raju Lama, International President of the SAARC Journalist Forum, in New York, and Saša Dobrijević, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of ICJ Global Media Group LLC, in Belgrade, Serbia.

According to the MoU, both organizations will collaborate to advance independent journalism, enhance professional standards, and increase the global visibility of journalists from South Asia. The partnership is based on mutual respect, professional ethics, and institutional cooperation. The agreement reflects both organizations’ shared commitment to defending press freedom and supporting responsible journalism.

Under the agreement, the SAARC Journalist Forum will join the ICJ Friends institutional network. The partnership includes reciprocal digital promotion, with both organizations displaying each other’s official logos and website links, as well as the creation of an official institutional profile for SJF on the ICJ platform to showcase its activities, achievements, and initiatives.

The MoU also encourages SJF-affiliated journalists to become ICJ members, providing access to an international media network, professional training, publishing opportunities, press credentials, participation in global media panels, and eligibility for ICJ awards. Premium members will also gain access to the ICJ Marketplace for the international distribution of investigative and exclusive journalism.

The agreement outlines cooperation in joint projects, information sharing, online exchanges, and coordinated initiatives designed to strengthen media solidarity across South Asia and globally. It further clarifies that the MoU is an expression of goodwill and does not create legally binding financial or commercial obligations between the two organizations.

The partnership will remain in effect for an initial period of three years, with the option of renewal by mutual written agreement. Either party may terminate the agreement by providing 60 days’ written notice.

The signing of the MoU marks a significant milestone in expanding international media cooperation, creating new opportunities for journalists in the SAARC region to engage with a broader global network while reinforcing the shared values of press freedom, ethical journalism, and professional development.