In an interview on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Vietnam Revolutionary Press, Deputy Foreign Minister Le Thi Thu Hang emphasized that foreign press was formed and matured as a special force, playing an irreplaceable role in bringing Vietnam to the world and bringing the world closer to Vietnam.
Nowadays, not only informing and propagating, foreign press also actively participates in positioning Vietnam as a peaceful, stable, innovative and comprehensively integrated on the world map.
Foreign press has become a sharp tool in fighting public opinion, promptly refuting false and distorted information about the country's situation, thereby protecting national interests and preserving national prestige.
She pointed out that throughout history, foreign press has always played a pioneering role in spreading the right voice, affirming Vietnam's steadfast stance on independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and consistent foreign policies, and responsibility to the international community.
Recent achievements such as effectively communicating activities during the ASEAN Chairmanship Year 2020, the US-Korea Summit in Hanoi, the COP26 Conference, or the term of non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council have clearly demonstrated the bravery, intelligence and maturity of the Vietnamese foreign press team.
"These are vivid examples of the "combat" capacity of foreign press in creating a favorable public environment, contributing to enhancing the national position and prestige in the international arena" - Deputy Minister Le Thi Thu Hang shared.
Recognizing the opportunities and challenges that the Vietnamese foreign press is facing in the context of a rapidly changing global media environment, Deputy Minister Le Thi Thu Hang pointed out: "Foreign press needs to be properly recognized as a pioneering force on the information front. It is not just a front for foreign propaganda, but also a soft space for action in the struggle to protect the national image. Today's foreign journalists must truly be comprehensive "warriors": Quick in accessing and processing information, sharp in critical thinking, steadfast in political mettle and proficient in modern media technology".
Having been working in foreign press for many years, Deputy Minister Le Thi Thu Hang said: "It is not only a work experience, but also a time for me to share and deeply feel the silent contributions of the team of foreign journalists - those who work "foreign delivery with a pen and image".
According to the Deputy Minister, more than ever, in the context of our country entering a new era of development, foreign press needs to be recognized as a strategic element in the overall national soft power. Foreign journalists need to maintain political courage, constantly innovate in thinking and action, master modern technology, and above all always keep the heart of an honest, humane and responsible journalist.
"Always put yourself in a bigger mission - not just to provide information, but to tell the story of a country that is changing strongly, reaching out to the world with a proactive, positive and sincere spirit" - Ms. Le Thi Thu Hang shared.
