The CIPCC, partnering with the CPDA, launched a media exchange program in Beijing for 55 journalists, including Liberia’s Lincoln G. Peters. The initiative focuses on enhancing understanding of China’s socio-economic landscape while facilitating collaboration within the global media community. The program includes training, field visits, and access to major political events, aiming to strengthen international media ties and narratives about China.
The China International Press Communication Center (CIPCC), in partnership with the China Public Diplomacy Association (CPDA), has initiated a four-month media exchange and capacity-building program. The program, which commenced on February 27, 2025, in Beijing, gathers 55 journalists from various regions, including Liberia. Its goal is to enhance understanding of China’s socio-economic development, governance, and international diplomacy while facilitating collaboration between China and the global media community.
This initiative, designed for journalists from developing nations, offers immersive experiences through lectures, field visits, and internships. The selected cohort of journalists was chosen from a competitive field of 120 applicants from over 100 countries and six regional press centers. By participating, they will gain valuable insights and skills to report accurately on China’s developments.
During the opening ceremony, CIPCC Director Yu Lei expressed enthusiasm for the program’s potential to strengthen global media ties. He highlighted China’s commitment to fostering mutual understanding through this initiative. “This program is about fostering mutual understanding between China and the international community,” he stated, encouraging journalists to respect Chinese laws during their exploration of the country’s growth.
Yu Lei also announced that participants would have exclusive access to China’s major political gatherings, including the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), commencing on March 4, 2025. This experience will allow journalists to observe the legislative process and enhance their understanding of China’s governance.
Throughout the program, journalists will receive specialized training on a variety of subjects, including diplomacy, economic reforms, and media practices. They will also engage in field visits to significant provinces and collaborate with leading Chinese media organizations. In addition, symposiums with Chinese think tanks and government agencies will provide deeper insights into the country’s policies.
Among the distinguished participants is Lincoln G. Peters, a reporter from The New Dawn newspaper in Liberia. Peters has covered China-related issues for over seven years and considers his participation a significant career milestone. He expressed gratitude to the People’s Republic of China and emphasized the opportunity to strengthen Liberia-China relations through accurate storytelling.
Peters praised the support received from his editorial team, acknowledging The New Dawn’s Managing Editor and News Editor for their encouragement. He stated, “I view this as a platform to further deepen Liberia-China relations through accurate storytelling and to represent Liberia on the global media stage.”
The CIPCC program has a history of over a decade and has developed into a recognized initiative for promoting media cooperation and cultural exchange. It aligns with China’s broader strategy of nurturing diplomatic ties through individual exchanges and enhancing international comprehension of its development model.
As the program is set to conclude on July 11, 2025, participants are expected to deliver in-depth reports, documentaries, and multimedia narratives reflecting their experiences. Yu Lei reaffirmed the initiative’s dedication to aiding journalists in their professional journeys and promoting open dialogue between China and the international community.
The CIPCC’s media exchange program represents a significant opportunity for journalists from developing countries to deepen their understanding of China and cultivate global media collaboration. With a focus on mutual understanding and respect for cultural differences, participants like Lincoln G. Peters are poised to enhance the narrative surrounding China and build lasting relationships between nations. This initiative underscores the importance of media in fostering international dialogue and cooperation.
Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com