This archive report was first published on 17 September 2019.
Beijing, China - On September 16, 2019, the Belt and Road News Network (BRNN) forum kicked off in China's capital, attracting 50 journalists from 26 countries across Africa and Latin America.
The Chinese government highlighted the significant role of the media in the implementation of Belt and Road projects, which are taking shape.
According to Deputy Head of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Jiang Jianguo, journalists will act as key facilitators of the framework by delivering accurate and in-depth news reports on economic and social developments in nations that have signed up to the program.
"The media professionals, through BRNN, must create a platform for exchange and cooperation among countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative and help establish operational mechanisms that will boost project cooperation," Jiang said.
Editor-In-Chief of the People's Daily Tuo Zhen expressed concern that some media outlets have been projecting the initiative in a negative light, despite commendable developments in countries where belt and road projects are being executed.
"We want to use this platform to create a better understanding of the Belt and Road Initiative. It aims to promote communication between different nations and cultures while also facilitating cooperation in various sectors between countries," Tuo Zhen said.
