Media can act as a bridge for people-to-people exchanges and foster mutual understanding among civilizations in an era of divisions and conflicts, journalists said during the 2025 Belt and Road Journalists Forum.

The weeklong forum, whose theme was "Promoting Civilizations Dialogue and Global Modernization with Power of Journalists", concluded on Sunday in Jiangxi province. It attracted around 100 journalists from approximately 50 countries worldwide.

Wang Gang, deputy head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, in his speech at the opening ceremony, highlighted the importance of people-to-people exchanges in the joint building of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative.

By broadening perspectives and adopting innovative storytelling, international media agencies can underline the latest achievements in cultural heritage and artistic creation across nations, he said.

By doing so, they promote people-to-people exchanges, deepen mutual understanding, and help lay a strong foundation of public support for the joint development of the BRI, Wang said.

Participants widely acknowledged that the media serves not only as a narrator but also as a driver of civilization, emphasizing that in the age of digital information, it is especially crucial to overcome ideological bias, reject false narratives and stereotypes, and seek common ground while respecting differences.

"Journalists play a vital role in promoting development and cooperation. They understand realities on the ground, shape public opinion, and foster communication," said Sachin Gupta, secretary of the Indian Newspaper and Journalist Society.

"In today's world, we must strive to be not only responsible citizens of our countries, but also active members of a shared global community," he added.

Respect for diversity

"In a world marked by ideological divides, China's Global Civilization Initiative highlights shared values and a common human destiny," said Gyaneshwar Dayal, joint secretary of the Indian Press Association, adding that the initiative advocates mutual learning among civilizations, respect for diversity, and joint development.

"Such an initiative is not merely a diplomatic gesture, but one that truly allows us to enjoy the brilliant fruits of civilizational diversity," he said.

Dayal said the GCI supports diverse civilizations and shared human values, which can promote mutual trust and collaborations among different communities.

"Through the GCI, media around the world can foster a shared platform that promotes harmony over hierarchy, in which the focus shifts from power dynamics to peace, equality, and mutual respect," Dayal added.

Stanley Bangura Junior, chairman of the Sierra Leone Broadcasters Association, said the GCI is of great significance and will continue to grow and evolve over time and journalists should help bridge connections among different civilizations.

"Journalists have a key role to play in deepening cultural dialogue, helping people better understand not only their own country but also others. In doing so, they contribute to revitalizing traditional cultures and broadening ways of thinking," he said.

He criticized that misleading reports about China in Western media have fueled discrimination and bias in Western societies.

"Through cultural exchanges, face-to-face engagement, and sustained dialogue, we can open new doors and offer the world a more accurate understanding of China," he said.

"As journalists, we must continuously reflect on our responsibilities, to deepen inter-civilizational dialogue, bridge gaps in understanding, and restore truth to public discourse," he added.

liujianqiao@chinadaily.com.cn