European countries wish to bridge the gap with China

Journalists from Central and Eastern European countries have expressed their willingness to serve as a bridge to foster mutual understanding and win-win cooperation between China and CEE countries.

Speaking at a roundtable held in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, CEE journalists said they saw a modernized China with booming opportunities, pledging to present a true and panoramic view of the country with professional and objective reports.

Andrei Stoian, a producer and host of Canal 33, which is a Romanian television channel, expressed the belief that journalists between China and CEE countries would build a bridge of knowledge and friendship that benefits the regions and beyond.

"Misunderstanding and skepticism can arise, particularly in a world where media narratives often shape public perceptions," he said, adding that journalists must ensure their reports are fair, balanced and inclusive.

"By promoting transparency and bolstering open communication to build trust and mitigate concerns, collaborations between China and CEE countries would be perceived as mutually beneficial rather than one-sided," he added.

He called for journalists between the two sides to step up collaboration to offer comprehensive and in-depth coverage and enhance the quality and reach of the report to contribute to more global audiences.

Dragan Nikolic, a Croatian senior international reporter, urged journalists to make efforts to bridge the trust gap between China and Europe, which was caused by various reasons, including geopolitical ones.

Journalists should promote mutual understanding and objectively present China's real condition to ensure stable ties between the two sides, he said.

"When it comes to China, I would say it is opening up, which the world, including Europe, needs to learn much more about," he added.

Maria Sarafoglou, an anchor of Antenna Television in Greece, called on journalists to provide balanced coverage to contribute to stable ties between China and Greece and the stability of the regions and the world at large.

She hailed bilateral ties as "a unique example of how countries with different cultures and backgrounds can really come around and benefit mutually in a radically changing world."

Having noticed the enormous progress China has made, especially in economic and technological sectors, she said the two countries have huge potential for cooperation.

It's hoped journalists will nurture closer ties to share their perspectives and jointly combat false information, she added.

"What I can see in China is incredible in what it can be in the fields of economy, science and industry," said Ales Kovacic, a journalist of Slovenia's Bloomberg Adriatic News Agency .

He said the delegation during the visit witnessed that China is a leading power in many areas, such as AI and cyber-security.

He said China's economic approach is thoughtful, and he expressed confidence in the country's ability to overcome possible challenges that emerged during its growth.

The delegation of CEE journalists kicked off the China trip in mid-May, which has taken them to various places such as natural attractions, cultural venues and high-tech enterprises.