This morning, Party General Secretary To Lam, along with current and former leaders of the Party and State, attended a grand ceremony marking the 100th anniversary of Vietnam’s revolutionary press.

National interest and people’s welfare are the ultimate goals

Delivering the commemorative address, Mr. Nguyen Trong Nghia, Head of the Central Commission for Propaganda and Education, emphasized that this celebration is a moment to recall and magnify national pride and eternal gratitude to President Ho Chi Minh, who founded, led, and trained generations of revolutionary journalists.

Nghia underscored the dynamic transformation of Vietnam’s media in restructuring, staffing, digital transformation, and journalistic mindset. He highlighted the role of journalism in discovering and promoting exemplary individuals, enhancing public discourse, and actively contributing to policy development.

He praised the press for its courage in fighting corruption and negativity, defending the Party’s ideological foundation, protecting territorial sovereignty, and promoting international communication.

“Approaching the centenary is not only about glorious tradition or proud revolutionary tales, but also about the current standing and face of a modern, trusted, and internationally recognized media landscape,” Nghia noted.

Journalism must innovate to meet the times

In his keynote address, General Secretary To Lam retraced the revolutionary origins of Vietnam’s press, from the first issue of Thanh Nien newspaper in 1925 to the present day. That publication marked the start of Vietnam’s revolutionary journalism and played a foundational role in establishing the Communist Party of Vietnam in 1930.

Mr. To Lam described the press as a century-long companion to the nation, built on intellect, spirit, sacrifice, and tireless effort. From handwritten reports in war zones to today’s AI-powered newsrooms, Vietnamese journalists have embodied courage, creativity, and unwavering dedication.

With nearly 800 media outlets and tens of thousands of reporters, editors, and technicians, Vietnam’s media is embracing digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and new storytelling methods to craft content that is modern, humane, and closer to the people.

He emphasized that the press is a vital channel for projecting Vietnam’s image globally, showcasing the nation's cultural identity, patriotism, and development ambitions in the era of global integration.

A strategic weapon of the Party and people

Speaking in the current context of global upheaval, Party Chief To Lam reaffirmed that the press remains a frontline force for political stability, social unity, and national defense. He praised investigative journalism for exposing corruption, supporting law enforcement, and rebuilding public trust.

“Journalism has become a fearless blade of truth, defending righteousness and fighting against falsehoods and evil,” he stated. The press helps forge national consensus and aspirations toward building a strong, prosperous, and happy Vietnam.

He emphasized that journalists must embody professionalism, political integrity, ethical standards, and a sense of mission. “Every journalist should be a respected social figure and a cultural ambassador,” he urged.

Mr. To Lam called on the press to swiftly adapt to the digital era, lead innovation, and assert their voice in global communication spaces. He reiterated: “The Party will never relinquish its fighting weapon – the press. We must nurture it with care.”

Finally, he stressed the need to streamline media operations for efficiency and remove unethical or ideologically compromised individuals from the journalism profession.

Tran Thuong