Toshiro Nishizawa’s first impression of the Vietnam News Agency’s (VNA) English and Japanese websites stemmed from their well-structured layout and professional design. Photo: Xuan Giao/VNA  

Toshiro Nishizawa, a Senior Fellow at Graduate School of Public Policy under the University of Tokyo, shares his impressions of the Vietnam News Agency’s (VNA) English and Japanese websites, highlighting how their credibility, intuitive design and timely reporting have made them his go-to daily resource for understanding modern Vietnam.

Reporter: Mr. Nishizawa, when did you begin following news about Vietnam on the English and Japanese websites of the Vietnam News Agency?

For almost thirty years, I’ve been visiting Vietnam nearly every year to follow the country’s economic and social development, as well as its relationship with Japan.

About a year ago, while looking for a reliable source of official information, I came across the Vietnam News Agency’s English and Japanese websites. Since then, I’ve been checking them every morning to stay updated on the latest developments in Vietnam.

Reporter: What was your first impression when reading news on these websites?

What struck me immediately was how professionally the site is designed and organized. It’s very easy to find the information we need, and the interface is extremely user-friendly. It also supports multiple languages, and I imagine it incorporates some of the most advanced AI technologies. The photography is impressive and used very effectively. To be honest, I was pleasantly surprised, and it gave me a very strong impression of the high standards of Vietnamese journalism, especially the work of the Vietnam News Agency.

Reporter: In your opinion, what are the strengths of the English and Japanese websites of the Vietnam News Agency for foreign readers?

The accuracy and reliability of the official information, combined with the clarity of presentation, really stand out. The breadth of coverage and the timeliness of the updates are also remarkable. For foreign readers like me, having English and Japanese versions is invaluable.

Repoter: How have these websites helped you understand Vietnam today? 

Thanks to the Vietnam News Agency’s website, I can follow a wide range of topics - from Vietnam’s economic and social development to its foreign policy and even everyday life. I’m particularly interested in news related to Vietnam–Japan relations, including the economy, diplomacy, investment, education, people-to-people exchange, and high-level visits. The site makes it easy to access information and, importantly, to understand Vietnam’s perspective on many different issues.

Reporter: How do you evaluate the role of the Vietnam News Agency in introducing Vietnam to the world?

I believe the Vietnam News Agency plays a very significant role in communicating Vietnam’s story to the world. Its foreign-language websites not only help international readers gain a deeper understanding of the country, but also contribute greatly to shaping the image of today’s Vietnam as a dynamic, developing nation that is actively engaged with the international community. For me personally, it has become an indispensable and highly trustworthy source whenever I want to learn more.

Reporter: Thank you very much!