Xi praises journalists' efforts

President Xi Jinping stressed on Monday the importance of "a sound environment for public opinion", calling it crucial for governance and national stability.

Xi made the remarks while meeting in Beijing with representatives of the All-China Journalists' Association and winners of this year's China News Award and Changjiang Taofen Award, the country's top two journalism awards. The latter is named after Chinese journalists Fan Changjiang (1909-70) and Zou Taofen (1895-1944).

Xi urged the country's journalists to follow "the correct political direction," conform to the Communist Party of China Central Committee, adhere to the Marxist view of journalism, stick to the standpoint of the Party and the people, and uphold socialism with Chinese characteristics.

Journalists were urged to make more efforts to promote the Party's theories and policies as well as Chinese people's hard work and achievements. Xi also called on them to continuously improve their professional abilities, strive for innovation and be diligent and dedicated.

Describing the country's journalists as "reliable and high-quality", Xi expressed his gratitude on behalf of the Party and the people.

Xi said the media have played a very important role in various stages of revolution, reform and development. He praised their efforts in disseminating the Party's propositions, speaking for the people and researching for policymaking.

(China Daily 11/08/2016 page1)