China's foreign ministry to increase press briefings

By Kim Young-gyo
HONG KONG, Aug. 28 (Yonhap) -- China's Foreign Affairs Ministry this week will increase press briefings to five times a week from the current twice, government officials said Sunday, citing the world's growing desire to understand the Asian giant.
Starting Sept. 1, China's foreign ministry will hold press briefings in Beijing every weekday, Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said in a press release.
Currently, spokespersons for the ministry meet press every Tuesday and Thursday.
"Under the new system, foreign ministry spokesmen will explain China's policies on regional and global issues in a more timely manner," Yang said.
He also said the world's "desire to understand China" has become more pressing.
The ministry officials said these changes will not only increase the number of briefings, but also will increase the overall quality of the briefing system.
"We hope our efforts will help enhance understanding and trust between China and the rest of the world, reduce misunderstandings and allow the public to gain a more thorough and accurate understanding of our diplomatic work," the ministry said.
China's governmental spokesperson system was created in 1983 by the foreign ministry.
Over the past 28 years, a total of 25 Foreign Affairs Ministry representatives have given over 2,000 regular press briefings, according to the release.
China has often been criticized for restricting the activities of foreign journalists in the country and not taking a more open stance with them.