On 15 July, President Thongloun Sisoulith called on Lao media to strengthen professionalism, credibility and innovation, urging journalists to serve as a trusted voice for the public while countering misinformation in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
Addressing the closing session of the First National Media Conference, held under the theme “Strengthening Party Leadership and Developing Media Toward a Strong Transition to a New Quality,” the President said media organizations at both central and local levels must continue improving the quality of their work to deliver accurate, timely and comprehensive information on Party and State policies and major national developments.
Thongloun stressed that journalists should remain united, continuously enhance their professional skills and adapt to rapidly changing media environments. He urged media professionals to distinguish between constructive criticism and malicious attacks, defend truth and justice, and maintain public trust through responsible reporting.
He also called on the media to respond more quickly to emerging events, ensuring verified information reaches the public ahead of rumors and disinformation. News reporting, he said, should be factual, concise, relevant and engaging, particularly for younger audiences, while helping the public distinguish credible information from false or misleading content.
The President encouraged journalists to strengthen research and analysis, closely monitor domestic and international developments, and use Party and State policies as the foundation for their reporting while remaining responsive to public concerns and feedback.
He also urged Party and State organizations responsible for media oversight to continue supporting the development of Lao media, enabling it to better fulfill its role as a reliable source of information and an effective bridge between the Government and the public.