–As Second-Level Researcher (Deputy Division Level) of the E-commerce Division Department of Commerce of Hunan Province highlights vital role of media in the globalized world
The Chinese government, through its Ministry of Commerce and the Department of Commerce of Hunan Province, has reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening cooperation with developing countries, particularly in the field of media and communication. This pledge was made during the opening ceremony of the Seminar on Media Communication Capacity for Liberia, held in Changsha, the capital of Hunan Province.
Delivering the keynote speech, Mr. Liu Qi, Second-Level Researcher (Deputy Division Level) of the E-commerce Division, Department of Commerce of Hunan Province, welcomed Liberian participants and emphasized the importance of building international communication bridges through media.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Commerce and the Department of Commerce of Hunan Province, I extend warm congratulations on the seminar and a sincere welcome to all leaders present and international friends who have traveled far to join us,” Mr. Liu said.
The seminar, hosted by China’s Ministry of Commerce and organized by the Hunan International Business Vocational College, aims to enhance the media communication capacity of Liberian journalists while promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between China and Liberia.
Mr. Liu said China’s strategic choice to cooperate with developing nations remains unwavering. He linked the seminar to China’s broader efforts under the Belt and Road Initiative and South-South cooperation frameworks.
“As the world’s largest developing country, China has always stood with other developing countries through thick and thin, assisting in improving people’s livelihoods and developing economies,” he remarked. “The joint pursuit of the Belt and Road Initiative not only aligns with the evolving landscape of global information dissemination but also answers the call of our times for strengthened intercultural dialogue, deeper understanding, and greater mutual trust among nations.”
Highlighting the vital role of media in the globalized world, Liu described media as “a bridge for cross-cultural communication and a pivotal force in advancing international cooperation while bridging cognitive divides.”
He emphasized that the seminar is designed to serve as a “transnational platform for exchange and collaboration,” fostering a culture of mutual learning and strengthening the global presence and professionalism of Liberian media institutions.
Speaking about the host province, Mr. Liu described Hunan as a “land of fish and rice” and the birthplace of Chairman Mao Zedong, rich in both tradition and modern development. He encouraged participants to make the most of their time in Changsha.
“We hope that all participants will cherish this training opportunity, actively engage in discussions and visits, integrate Chinese experience with your national practices, and explore a media capacity-building pathway suited to your own context,” Liu stated. “Meanwhile, we expect you to gain a comprehensive understanding of China’s social development and media ecosystem through cultural activities and become ambassadors for promoting media exchanges and deepening the friendship between our two nations.”
More than 30 Liberian journalists, representing various private and public media institutions, are participating in the seminar. The program includes lectures, interactive sessions, field visits, and cultural exchanges designed to give participants insight into China’s communication infrastructure and governance system.
The seminar will run from August 1-14, 2025 and is part of China’s broader strategy to boost people-to-people diplomacy, encourage intercultural dialogue, and support capacity.
