I AM honored to share the speech that I delivered during the closing ceremony of the China International Press Communication Center (CIPCC) 2024 program last Dec. 11, 2024. The event was held at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, a venue steeped in history and renowned as a symbol of high-level diplomacy. Hua Chunying, China’s vice minister of foreign affairs, and the president of China Public Diplomacy Association, Wu Hailong, along with foreign several ambassadors, attended the ceremony.
As a media practitioner representing The Manila Times, I had the privilege of participating in this prestigious four-month program alongside an inspiring group of journalists and media practitioners from around the globe.
Out of the 96 participants hailing from 87 countries, 17 of us represented the Asia-Pacific region, spanning 15 countries. It was a profound honor to be chosen to speak on behalf of the Asia-Pacific Center, sharing the collective perspectives and experiences of my media colleagues and friends from this diverse and dynamic region. The speech captured the essence of our journey through the CIPCC program — our learnings, camaraderie and shared aspirations as media professionals in an increasingly interconnected world.
CIPCC 2024
As we gather here today to mark the conclusion of the CIPCC 2024 program, my heart swells with gratitude, reflection and a profound sense of connection. These past months have been a professional and deeply personal voyage of discovery, learning and friendship. Indeed, what an incredible journey it has been — a journey that has taken us not just across the breathtaking landscapes of China but also into the heart of its vibrant culture, its remarkable economic achievements, and, most importantly, the warmth and generosity of its people.
A vast and fascinating nation
Over the past months, we, the journalists of the Asia-Pacific Center, have traveled from the misty mountains of Guizhou to the snow-covered landscapes of Harbin and Jilin, from the vibrant streets of Shanghai to the colorful traditions of Yunnan; each destination unfolded a unique story — a story of a nation that harmonizes its ancient past with a bold vision for the future. Guizhou reminded us of the enduring beauty of China’s rural heartland, Harbin and Jilin illustrated resilience in the icy embrace of winter; Shanghai dazzled us with the pulse of modernity and dynamism, while Yunnan brought to life the gorgeous tapestry of ethnic diversity, and we immersed ourselves in the historical and political heartbeat of Beijing.
Each step in these travels revealed more than just the physical beauty of China; it revealed the spirit of a people deeply connected to their roots yet unafraid to innovate and progress. The rhythm of China’s development, intertwined with its cultural preservation, serves as an inspiration not only to those of us who visited but also to the world.
While the landscapes and skylines left us in awe, the warmth of the people truly touched our hearts. From the smiles of villagers in Guizhou to the vibrant exchanges in Yunnan and the bustling streets of Shanghai, we felt embraced by a nation that values hospitality and generosity. Our dialogues, whether over a shared meal or in the exchange of ideas, reminded us of the power of human connection, which transcends borders, languages and cultures.
Moreover, China’s economic narrative is a story of transformation that we have witnessed firsthand. It is a story of innovation hubs in Shanghai, thriving rural industries in Guizhou and the preservation of centuries-old traditions in Yunnan. This concurrence of modern economic dynamism and deep cultural heritage is a testament to a nation that honors its past while building its future. The traditions we encountered, the tea ceremonies, the folk music and the calligraphy artistry remind us that a nation’s soul resides in its culture.
Building bridges
Beyond the experiences and the learnings, this program has achieved something truly extraordinary; it has brought together around 96 journalists and media practitioners from 87 countries, of which there are 17 journalists from the Asia-Pacific region representing 15 countries — Pakistan, Timor-Leste, the Philippines, Cambodia, Lao, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri-Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Fiji and Vanuatu.
Together, we have shared stories, perspectives and aspirations. Together, we have built bridges between our respective nations, China and ourselves. The camaraderie that grew within this diverse group is perhaps the most valuable treasure we will take home. It reminds us of the unifying power of shared experiences and common goals.
Final reflection
In addition, what made this journey exceptional was the places we visited and the camaraderie and friendships we built along the way, especially with my colleagues and friends in the Asia-Pacific Center, where we have a family that cares and helps each other sincerely and profoundly.
Coming from 15 countries, each of us in the Asia-Pacific Center arrived here with unique perspectives, stories and expectations. But through shared experiences — be it over a cup of tea in a quiet village, during a spirited discussion on global issues, or even while trying to perfect our chopstick skills, we found common ground. We discovered that, as journalists and media practitioners, our mission transcends borders. It is about seeking the truth, fostering understanding and building bridges in a world that sometimes feels too divided.
As we prepare to return to our respective countries, let us carry with us the memories of China’s beauty and progress, and the lessons of collaboration, the value of cultural exchange and the enduring warmth of its people.
On behalf of my colleagues and friends in the Asia-Pacific Center, I would like to extend our heartfelt and sincere thanks to the organizers of CIPCC and our gracious Asia-Pacific directors, Jambu and Ginny, to the very active and helpful assistants of our center, Albert, Emily and Maggie, your meticulous planning, dedication and passion made this journey not just possible but transformative. You have broadened our professional horizons and deepened our personal ones. We will carry forward the lessons we have learned, the friendships we have forged and the memories we have made.
To my fellow CIPCC participants from all centers, especially to my Asia-Pacific family, let us remember that our journey does not end here. The stories we write, the narratives we shape and the bridges we build will continue to strengthen the connections we have fostered.
Thank you, CIPCC, for showing us a country and a vision of harmony, progress and shared humanity. May our paths cross again in the future, and may the bonds we have formed here continue to thrive. Safe travels, my friends, and let us meet again someday — perhaps here, in this incredible land that we have come to adore and admire.
Source: The Manila Times
https://www.manilatimes.net/2024/12/14/opinion/columns/bridging-cultures-and-connections-through-journalism/2021658
