Global Media Delegates Convene in Fuzhou for Belt and Road Forum
International media leaders discuss cooperation and shared development goals in China's Fuzhou city.
1International Forum in Fuzhou
The 2026 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road commenced this week in Fuzhou, China. Over 200 delegates from 100 countries attended the event, representing 182 media outlets and institutions. The gathering was jointly hosted by the People's Daily and the Fujian provincial government to foster international dialogue and media collaboration.
2Belt and Road Expansion
Launched by President Xi Jinping in 2013, the Belt and Road Initiative continues to expand its global footprint. Officials reported that the initiative now includes 150 signatory countries and 30 international organisations. To date, the program has facilitated the development of more than 4,000 cooperation projects across various global regions.
3Strategic Economic Influence
Xian Hui, vice-chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, characterized the initiative as the world's largest platform for international economic cooperation. Speakers emphasized that the platform's scale, scope, and influence remain significant factors in shaping modern global economic dynamics and fostering international development partnerships today.
4Media's Role in Stability
Hu Heping, executive deputy head of the Communist Party's Central Publicity Department, urged international news organisations to highlight the initiative's contributions to world peace. He emphasized that objective reporting is essential for maintaining economic stability, particularly amid the current climate of global instability that affects many participating partner nations worldwide.
5Bridging Cultural Differences
Yu Shaoliang, president of People's Daily Press, advocated for media to act as a bridge between diverse partner nations. He specifically called for localised perspectives and objective reporting to counter international misconceptions. By focusing on cultural commonalities, media outlets can improve mutual understanding and strengthen ties between the participating countries.
6The Fuzhou Initiative
Participating media representatives signed the Belt and Road Media Cooperation: Fuzhou Initiative during the event. This document encourages global media organisations to produce joint coverage that promotes policy communication and mutual trust. The initiative aims to turn shared human aspirations for a better life into a consensus built on cooperation.
7Symbolism of the Initiative
The initiative draws on the character 'Fu', which signifies blessing or good fortune in Fujian. Organisers noted that different peoples share this auspicious meaning, reflecting a common desire for a better life. By integrating these shared aspirations into their reporting, media organisations aim to foster deeper connections among the diverse participating populations.
8Post-Forum Reporting Tours
Following the conclusion of the two-day forum, foreign journalists began organised reporting tours across Fujian and other regions. These visits are designed to provide firsthand insights into the impact of the Belt and Road projects. Such field reporting serves to document the practical outcomes of the cooperation discussed during the forum.
Original article: IOL News — Global Media Delegates Convene in Fuzhou for Belt and Road Forum