Eighty years ago, on April 7, 1946, President Ho Chi Minh, who was then the Prime Minister of Foreign Affairs, signed Decree No. 47/SL establishing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This decree laid the groundwork for the creation of the Department of Information and Press. Over the past eight decades, with the support of Party and State leaders and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as the dedication of many generations of collaborators, the Department of Information and Press has left its mark on many historical periods and significant events in the country’s foreign policy.
Following the August 1945 Revolution, the young Democratic Republic of Vietnam, facing numerous challenges, embarked on a mission to help the world understand the true nature of the revolution and the country’s aspirations for independence. The diplomatic leaders, particularly those from the Department of Information and Communication, played a vital role in denouncing colonial and imperialist forces while building an informational front to safeguard the country’s burgeoning independence.
President Ho Chi Minh’s strategic vision and international communication initiatives, including numerous meetings with journalists during his visit to France in 1946, effectively conveyed the Vietnamese people’s desire for peace and independence. This exchange of information during the revolutionary period resonated with progressives worldwide and garnered support for peace and opposition to war.
Through resilience, courage, and silent sacrifice, diplomats and officials worked tirelessly during the Geneva Conference in 1954 and the Paris Conference (1968-1973), becoming symbols of Vietnam’s determination and valor. Despite facing challenges, the Department of Press and Information plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s image, mobilizing international support, and countering false narratives to enhance national defense.
As the world undergoes rapid changes in the 21st century, media’s role is not just about communication but also survival in the international arena. External communication faces opportunities and challenges including the rise of the “information war,” fake news, and AI-generated content, highlighting the need for adaptability, innovation, and professional skills among staff.
With over 80 years of history, the Department of Press and Information, along with other departments within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, continues to serve the country and its people faithfully. Upholding traditions of excellence, current members commit to providing accurate information, supporting journalists, and promoting the nation on the global stage.
Looking ahead, current leaders aim to strengthen Vietnam’s voice on the international stage through modern diplomacy, contributing to the nation’s ongoing development and foreign policy endeavors. The Department of Press and Information remains dedicated to upholding its passion, courage, and dedication in the face of new challenges.
*Note: The content is about the journey and achievements of the Department of Foreign Affairs’ press and information for their 80th anniversary.
