The heartfelt remark was made by Cambodian scholar Uch Leang, who is Acting Head of the Department for Asian, African and Middle Eastern Studies under the Institute of International Relations, Royal Academy of Cambodia, and President of the Association of Cambodian Alumni who studied in Vietnam, on the occasion of the newspaper’s 75th anniversary of foundation day.
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Cambodian scholar Uch Leang |
Cambodian scholar Uch Leang Uch Leang views the People’s Army Newspaper as one of the most distinguished press agencies in Vietnam, deeply imbued with the ideological and fighting spirit of the country’s revolutionary journalism. Throughout its historical milestones, from the arduous years of the resistance wars to the period of national renewal and international integration, the newspaper has consistently reflected the intellect, courage, and will of the Vietnamese people, faithfully portraying soldiers and civilians in the cause of national construction and defense.
He emphasized that amid the complex and fast-changing global media environment, the PAN has demonstrated integrity, courage, and a high sense of social responsibility. “What I most admire is that whether in wartime or peacetime, the newspaper has always remained steadfast in truthfully, persistently, and resiliently reflecting reality, while defending the supreme interests of the Vietnamese people and nation. That steadfast commitment has made it a symbol of just journalism and a trusted, authoritative voice within Vietnam’s media system,” the Cambodian scholar said.
Reflecting on its 75-year journey, he noted that the newspaper’s development vividly illustrates the growth of Vietnam’s revolutionary journalism in general and military journalism in particular. Born during the resistance wars, the newspaper has always embodied a fighting spirit, spreading faith and determination among the resilient Vietnamese people. This foundation, he added, has enabled the paper to thrive in the era of national renewal.
As the country entered a new period of peace and reform, the PAN evolved beyond its role as the voice of the Central Military Commission and the Ministry of National Defense to become a respected press agency covering various aspects of political, economic, and social life. The newspaper has shown great adaptability by adopting modern journalistic methods, diversifying its content and presentation, and promptly reflecting the pulse of national life, while maintaining its standards, ideological clarity, and educational mission.
He also expressed deep admiration for the newspaper’s portrayal of “Uncle Ho’s Soldiers.” The paper’s reporting style is precise and disciplined, yet intimate and humane, true to the qualities of the soldiers it represents. He noted that the way the paper depicts Vietnamese soldiers, as both brave warriors and compassionate individuals devoted to serving the people, has left a profound impression on Cambodian readers, symbolizing the spirit of international solidarity and the deep friendship between the two nations.
Uch Leang affirmed that the PAN has made significant contributions to promoting the image of Vietnam and its people abroad. Its reporting combines ideological depth with humanism, blending “the spirit of the soldier” with “the breath of life” to portray a nation that is resilient, creative, open, and kind-hearted. He highlighted that the newspaper’s online editions in English, Chinese, Lao, Khmer, and Russian have expanded its international reach, bringing Vietnam’s voice closer to global audiences. The Khmer-language edition, he said, is vivid evidence of Vietnam’s effort to make its information accessible and relatable to Cambodian readers, thus presenting an image of a friendly and cooperative Vietnam.
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The PAN’s Khmer-language edition is vivid evidence of Vietnam’s effort to make its information accessible and relatable to Cambodian readers. |
He concluded that through professionalism, objectivity, and humanity, the newspaper has contributed to enhancing Vietnam’s credibility and international standing, affirming its role as journalism “for peace, cooperation, and development.” He extended his congratulations to the editorial board, staff, and all members of the newspaper on its 75th anniversary, emphasizing that its journey is a living testament to the enduring vitality of Vietnam’s revolutionary journalism, which always places the interests of the people, the nation, and justice above all else.
“I firmly believe that in the years to come, the PAN will continue to uphold its glorious tradition, innovate in content and form, and strengthen international cooperation, especially with Cambodian media and readers, to further nurture the friendship, solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between our two nations,” he said.
Translated by Tran Hoai