Established in 1987, the CIRTEF, a non-profit organisation of 51 radio and television broadcasters, aims to protect the interests of its members and promote the role of the broadcasting industry as a driving force behind the development of the community. It also provides opportunities for its members to boost cooperation and develop cultural identity.

In the current context, the CIRTEF is making every effort to promote North-South dialogue and cooperation between developed and developing countries within the Francophone community to address global issues, including poverty reduction, prevention of natural disasters and epidemics, and development.

“The CIRTEF is playing an important role in the globalisation process, “ says Ho Kien, head of the International Relations Department of Vietnam Television. “The organisation should work harder to elevate its role and position among broadcasting organisations from across the world. After this event, Radio the Voice of Vietnam (VOV) and Vietnam Television (VTV)  - which are co-hosting the meeting - will carry out more activities to make effective contributions to this organisation.”

VOV and VTV have actively participated in all CIRTEF activities since they joined the organisation more than 20 years ago. Vietnam was elected vice chair of CIRTEF at its general assembly meetings in Switzerland in 2001, Canada in 2005 and Burkina Faso in 2007. It was selected to host the 16^th CIRTEF general assembly in Hanoi on April 17-19.

The hosting of the regional conference and assumption of CIRTEF presidency will help Vietnam elevate its position within the Francophone community and in the CIRTEF in particular. Alongside promoting Vietnam’s image, the meeting is expected to open up new opportunities for VOV, VTV and the Vietnamese media to boost bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the broadcasting industry.

“It is important that Vietnam introduce initiatives  to promote North-South cooperation and dialogue between developed, developing and underdeveloped countries to help broadcasters in the latter two acquire new technology and professional skills, as well as exchange of information,” says VOV General Director Vu Van Hien, who is also CIRTEF 16 President.

Vietnam has built up its reputation within the Francophone community thanks to its significant contributions to this organisation and its positive achievements during the Doi Moi (Renewal) process, especially following the country’s successful hosting of the Francophone Summit in Hanoi in 1997. Given its past experience, Vietnam expects to successfully host CIRTEF 16 and make an effective contribution to this organisation.