Foreign press needs to be a pillar to enhance national comprehensive strength

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Thi Thu Hang

* Reporter: Mr. Deputy Minister, what role does the foreign press play in bringing Vietnam to the world and bringing the world closer to Vietnam?

* Deputy Minister LE THI THU HANG : Throughout history, the foreign press has always played a pioneering role in spreading the voice of justice, affirming Vietnam's steadfast stance on independence, sovereignty , territorial integrity and a consistent and responsible foreign policy towards the international community.

The effective communication of important foreign affairs activities such as the 2020 ASEAN Chairmanship, the US-North Korea Summit in Hanoi, the COP26 Conference, or the term as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council... has clearly demonstrated the mettle, intelligence and maturity of the Vietnamese foreign press team. These are vivid evidences of the "combat" capacity of the foreign press in creating a favorable public opinion environment, contributing to enhancing the country's position and prestige in the international arena.

In the era when information becomes a strategic resource, foreign press needs to be recognized as an elite force, a pillar in enhancing the nation's overall strength, contributing to building a strong and prosperous Vietnam in the new era.

* In the context of the rapidly changing global media environment, how does the Deputy Minister view the opportunities and challenges that Vietnamese foreign press is facing?

* The digital age with the development of information and communication technology is creating revolutionary changes in the way we approach, produce, disseminate and receive information. We can transmit information to every corner of the world at unprecedented speed and increasingly optimal costs. Digital platforms and cross-border social networks are becoming effective information channels to directly reach international audiences, increasing Vietnam's presence and influence in the global media space.

However, the challenge is not small. The global media space is a fiercely competitive environment in terms of attractiveness, the ability to lead public opinion and especially the authenticity of information. Fake news, false information, and distortions about Vietnam can appear from anywhere and spread at a dizzying speed. In many cases, if not handled promptly and effectively, this information can lead to serious political, diplomatic, and economic consequences, even directly affecting the peaceful, stable and developing environment of the country.

Therefore, foreign journalists today must truly be comprehensive "soldiers": quick in accessing and processing information, sharp in critical thinking, steadfast in political will and proficient in modern communication technology.

Conclusion No. 57-KL/TW of the Politburo on continuing to innovate foreign information work clearly states key requirements such as: "proactively providing truthful, objective and timely information", "closely combining traditional and modern information", "effectively coordinating political diplomacy and international media". This is not only a strategic direction, but also a guideline for all foreign press activities in the new period.

* As the person directly in charge of foreign information work, what expectations and messages does the Deputy Minister have for the foreign press team on this occasion?

* Our country is entering a new era of development - an era of strong growth, with the aspiration to build a strong, prosperous Vietnam with a worthy role in the international community. In that context, foreign press needs to be seen as a strategic element in the overall national soft power.

Foreign journalists need to maintain political integrity, constantly innovate in thinking and action, and master modern technology. And above all, always keep in mind the heart of an honest, humane, and responsible journalist. Always put yourself in a larger mission - not just providing information, but telling the story of a country that is changing strongly, reaching out to the world with a proactive, positive, and sincere spirit.

In addition, the competent authorities and press management agencies need to continue to pay more practical attention to foreign press, from training policies, investment in infrastructure and technology to expanding the operating space and opportunities for international cooperation. We need a foreign press team that is solid in theory, sharp in profession, proactive in technology and innovative in conveying national messages; accurately reflecting the stature, aspirations and spirit of the Vietnamese people in the new era. That is the era in which every step of the country in the international arena needs the strong accompaniment of strategic communications.

BICH QUYEN

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/bao-chi-doi-ngoai-can-la-tru-cot-nang-cao-suc-manh-tong-hop-quoc-gia-post800339.html