Foreign reporters to get easier access even after Olympics

Current regulations allowing foreign reporters easier access and greater transparency will likely continue after the Olympic Games, a Chinese official said.

Cai Wu, Minister of the State Council Information Office, said at a press conference that China has no document saying that when the new regulation expires on October 17, 2008 the country would go back to previous conditions.

"If practices show that it will help the international community know better about China, it is a good policy in accordance with the country's reform and opening up. Why is it necessary for us to change it?" Cai was quoted by Xinhua as saying.

However, Cai emphasized that foreign reporters have to abide by relevant laws and regulations, saying that some have filed one-sided report about the country which have not sat well with government spokespersons.

The Minister said that training for provincial spokespersons in provincial governments would be extended to cover those at a lower level next year to help them communicate better with the media. Spokespersons will also allow journalists to have access to more timely information.

The new regulations on foreign journalists reporting in China for the Olympic Games and the months leading up to it took effect on January 1. The rules will expire on October 17, after the Paralympic Games.