Olympic press freedom hailed by foreign media

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Source: CCTV.com | 01-26-2008 08:44

It's been a year since the government issued regulations giving foreign journalists more freedom to cover stories in the country.

It's been a year since the government issued regulations giving foreign journalists more freedom to cover stories in the country.

China will provide better assistance, a better environment, and better access for foreign reporters to work in the country. Senior officials reiterated this commitment at an annual reception for journalists from around the world.

Liu Jianchao, Foreign Ministry Spokesman said "Throughout the year, we've found the journalists have enjoyed better access to information. We expect more journalists to come to China provide better assistance for them."

The new media regulation took effect on January 1 last year. It gives foreign media freedom to report throughout China until the end of the Olympics. They are also allowed to interview anyone without first getting government permission, and to go pretty much anywhere in China.

Some reporters say such a measure is unprecedented.

And some others say the regulation helps an open-up China to be aware of its image during the Olympics, as well as to erase misunderstanding and stereotyped opinions.

Olga Tanasiychuk, National News Agency of Ukraine said "This regulation is needy and timely, we felt it much easy to work, more access to officials to report. I hope this will not be an end."

Most foreign journalists endorse the convenience brought by the new policy. But they hope the policy will be extended beyond the Olympics.

As the host country of the Olympic Games, China is set to welcome the world. And China says it also welcomes all opinions from the international media. The country's efforts to improve the flow of information is a sign of its increasing confidence as it emerges on the world stage.

Editor:Xiong Qu