Reports on China

Liu Xin vs Western Media: The Shocking Truth About "Free Press" and Trust

In this insightful interview on Reports on China, CGTN anchor Liu Xin delivers a powerful analysis of Western media coverage during the Xi-Trump summit. She praises US journalists for absorbing fresh perspectives but highlights their genuine shock at ordinary Chinese life — from elderly people happily playing ping-pong in Chaoyang Park to everyday normalcy that contradicts the negative narratives they usually encounter. Liu Xin contrasts the highly polarized, drama-driven Western media — obsessed with conflict, clickbait, and sensational headlines — with China’s constructive “bridge” media model. Rather than acting as an antagonist, Chinese media serves as a vital two-way connection between the government and 1.5 billion people: explaining policies, sharing grassroots voices, highlighting challenges, and fostering collective progress. She points to dramatically different trust levels: Chinese public trust in the central government exceeds 90% and traditional media over 80% (per long-term Gallup, Edelman Trust Barometer, and Harvard Kennedy School surveys), while trust in Western institutions continues to decline. Liu Xin emphasizes that China’s approach is rooted in responsibility, a proven track record of delivery, and rigorous anti-corruption efforts — not "yellow" journalism. A must-watch discussion on media freedom, cultural differences, system accountability, and the path toward better mutual understanding between China and the West. Full of eye-opening insights you won’t hear in mainstream coverage.