Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Bac Son held a working session with Vietnamese reporters abroad in Paris on April 27, urging them to bring the latest mainstream information about Vietnam to foreign readers and audiences.

He said that many websites and blogs abroad are releasing wrongful information about Vietnam’s domestic affairs and State management, undermining its internal solidarity.

To avert these hostile attempts, Son asked reporters to hone their professional skills, verify information and explain to foreigners about what is really happening in the country.

Stories and news should create a consensus in the society, raise public awareness of global events and Vietnam’s status on the world stage, he said.

In his suggestion, the 2013 upgrade of Vietnam – France relations to a strategic partnership level as well as France’s voice in global issues are among topics that correspondents should explore in greater depth.

Coverage of historic events, such as Vietnam’s victory over the French at Dien Bien Phu in 1954, the signing of the Paris Accords 1973 and President Ho Chi Minh’s activities in Europe developing his political philosophy hold long term significance, Son noted.

The minister also took the occasion to inform them that nearly 50 radio and television stations and over 400 media outlets abroad are covering stories in the Vietnamese language, showing that the country is catching the attention of the world.

Vietnam and France are hosting diverse activities during their Exchange Year 2014 to mark the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties. Nearly 400,000 Vietnamese are residing in the European country.-VNA