Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Lê Thị Thu Hằng. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

HÀ NỘI — The press for foreign service is an inseparable part of Việt Nam’s external affairs, tasked with projecting a peaceful, reform-driven Việt Nam to the world while countering misinformation, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Lê Thị Thu Hằng told the press on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Việt Nam Revolutionary Press Day (June 21, 1925 – 2025).

Hằng spotlighted the roots of Việt Nam’s revolutionary press to the founding of Thanh Niên (Young People) Newspaper in 1925 by Nguyễn Ái Quốc, later known as Hồ Chí Minh, saying that it had become a core force on the ideological and cultural front, standing shoulder to shoulder with the Vietnamese revolution through every twist of storied past.

Today, the press for foreign service had evolved into a distinct, irreplaceable force, bridging Việt Nam with the world and portraying a nation that is stable, peace-loving, and fully integrated into the international community.

It had also become a sharp-edged tool in the battle of public opinion, promptly countering misinformation and distortion about Việt Nam’s domestic and foreign affairs, thereby safeguarding national interests and reputation on the global stage.

Throughout history, she said, the press for foreign service had taken the lead in amplifying Việt Nam’s voice of justice, asserting its unwavering stance on independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, while promoting a consistent and responsible foreign policy. Notable recent achievements, such as efficient media coverage of activities within Việt Nam’s 2020 ASEAN Chairmanship, the US–DPRK Summit in Hà Nội, the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), and the country’s tenure as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, were evidence of the professionalism, strategic vision, and maturity of the Vietnamese press for foreign service.

In a world where information is a strategic asset, Hằng dubbed the press for foreign service as an “elite force” essential to Việt Nam’s national strength. She underscored the opportunities of the digital age, where platforms and social media enable rapid, cost-effective outreach to global audiences.

"But it’s a high-stakes game. Misinformation spreads like wildfire, and global media is a battlefield for influence and credibility. One false narrative could spell diplomatic or economic trouble," she warned.

Citing the Politburo’s Conclusion No. 57-KL/TW, which calls for accurate, objective and timely information, blending traditional and modern communication tools while aligning political diplomacy with international media outreach, she described it as a guiding compass for all external media activities in the new era.

"The press for foreign service is a form of 'soft-power combat'”, she insisted, urging journalists to be “versatile soldiers” who should be quick in accessing and processing information, sharp in critical thinking, steadfast in political mettle and proficient in modern communication technology.

Drawing on her experience in Việt Nam’s diplomatic missions, Hằng made a plea to journalists: “Tell the story of a Việt Nam that is transforming, confident, and charging onto the world stage".

At the same time, she also urged government agencies and press management agencies to step up their practical support through training, technological investment, and expanded international cooperation. — VNS