2017年CRI China to expand media relations with Africa: senior official（在线收听）

Over 40 media delegates from China and 11 African countries have gathered at the China-Africa Media Forum in Johannesburg, South Africa to explore new areas of cooperation.

CRI's Yu Yang has the story.

The Chinese and African media organizations have agreed to increase cooperation in information sharing, best practices and training to improve the dissemination of information about Sino-Africa ties.

Guo Weimin, deputy director of the State Council Information Office, says Chinese and African media need to deepen cooperation and exchanges.

"We must continue to deepen mutual trust. The Chinese and the African media should report truthfully about the Sino-Africa relations. The Chinese and African media should walk hand in hand and strengthen reporting in international affairs and make our voices heard on issues of fairness and rationality," said Guo

Guo Weimin is also calling on Chinese and African media organizations to forge new areas of media cooperation.

Kevin Ritchie, regional executive editor of South Africa's Independent Media, echoes this statement.

"As media from China and South Africa, we can use this opportunity to forge bonds, to learn from one another, to discuss the shortcomings we might have and find solutions to problems that are actually common to both of us," said Ritchie.

Ritchie suggests media organizations within BRICS are duty bound to place stories about the bloc on their agenda. 

The China-Africa Media Forum was hosted by the State Council Information Office of China, and has co-organized by China's Xinhua News Agency and South Africa's Independent Media.