China-LAC media forum calls for joint efforts

Representatives from over 13 countries and regions gathered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Wednesday to participate in the 2024 China-LAC Media Cooperation Forum.

The forum, also attended by media outlets, think tanks and international organizations, is themed "Learning from Each Other, Understanding Each Other" and discusses the role of media cooperation in shaping the China-Latin America community of shared future.

In her address, Tia Ju, the second vice-president of the Legislative Assembly of Rio de Janeiro and president of the Brazil-China Parliamentary Front, highlighted that the forum signifies the establishment of a trust-based relationship, evident in cultural, technological and educational exchanges. She emphasized the pivotal role of media in providing a platform for disseminating information that accurately portrays the reality of our societies.

"The joint work between Chinese and Latin American media has allowed narratives about our countries to circulate with greater authenticity, breaking down stereotypes and promoting a deeper understanding," she remarked.

Ju expressed optimism that through enhanced media exchanges and cooperation, the gap between the people of Brazil and China could be bridged, fostering mutual respect and shared development.

Marcos de Oliveira, president-director of the Brazilian newspaper Monitor Mercantil, emphasized that Latin American and Caribbean countries are actively pursuing friendly cooperation with China for mutual benefit. He stressed that the media should actively offer diverse perspectives to enable comprehensive and objective understanding of developments in the region.

"We must not rely solely on American and European media perspectives to interpret global affairs. Diverse viewpoints are essential for ensuring a thorough understanding of events across our region. The media of these countries should reflect the rise of the Global South," he added.

Hu Guo, vice-president of the People's Daily, underscored that mutual learning and the exchange of civilizations are crucial drivers of human progress and global peace. She emphasized that friendship and cooperation between China and Latin America are deeply rooted in the people and thrive on communication.

Hu urged Chinese and Latin American media to leverage their communication strengths to enhance mutual trust, consolidate development consensus, promote connectivity, deepen win-win cooperation, facilitate mutual learning and encourage cultural integration. This, she noted, would contribute wisdom and strength to the construction of the China-Latin America community of shared future.

During the forum, participants engaged in dialogues on two sub-themes — "Enhancing Industrial Connections and Promoting Economic Cooperation" and "Deepening Cultural Exchanges and Promoting People-to-People Connectivity". The forum was jointly organized by the People's Daily and the Brazilian newspaper Monitor Mercantil.