Fu Ying, Vice Foreign Minister and spokesperson for the First Session of the 12th NPC, answers questions from journalists during the press conference.[Photo/Xinhua]

A resolute but kind lady

Fu Ying, China's first spokeswoman for the National People's Congress (NPC), met with the press on March 4, for the first press conference of the 12th NPC. A veteran diplomat-turned- NPC spokesperson, Ms. Fu has left a deep impression on the attending foreign journalists.

Jaime A. Florcruz, CNN's Beijing Bureau chief and correspondent

Before closing the floor, Fu Ying personally gave the last opportunity to her "old friend" Mr. Florcruz, and hoped "the question would not be too harsh." Florcruz later expressed he agrees that China has to explore its own development path, echoing Fu's earlier remarks during the press meeting. "No [one] route fits all countries; China needs its own exploration," he said.

Their friendship started when Fu was still a young diplomat. Fu has since those days served as Chinese ambassador to the Philippines, Australia and the United Kingdom, times during which she has had extensive contact with the press. She built a reputation for herself being a good and efficient diplomat.

"Her tested aptitude in diplomatic background and experience with the press both contributed to her successful debut as an NPC spokesperson," Florcruz said.

Xu Jingbo, chief of the Japanese Asia News Agency

A Japanese reporter's question concerning the recent friction between China and Japan formed a highlight during the press conference. Recalling Fu Ying's reply, Xu said: "China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the CPPCC spokesperson have both reiterated China's strong stance. Fu Ying switched the tone and said she wished the Japanese government and people to hear China's voice. This is an unusual note and deserves a proper response from Japan."

Xu Jingbo described Fu Ying as an excellent spokesperson, especially clever in handling foreign policy-related questions. Xu said that given her diplomatic experience, it was a sound choice to let Fu spread China's voice overseas. It also exemplifies China's active efforts to get more involved in the world.

Wu Mu, reporter for Russian Alpha TV

Wu Mu (her Chinese name) is a Russian reporter. Though missing out on a chance to pose questions, Wu nonetheless said, "As a female reporter from Russia, it delights me to see an NPC spokeswoman today. I feel refreshed and honored."

Commenting on Fu's debut, Wu said: "A woman can express a tough attitude in a gentle way with regards to sensitive domestic and international issues." Wu said the new spokeswoman has acted very calm and shown "a Chinese woman's wisdom participating in state affairs."

Richard Arzt, Beijing correspondent for Paris Match and Le Parisien

As a resident foreign journalist based in Beijing, Arzt has been in touch with Fu Ying several times. Arzt said, "Fu Ying is a seasoned diplomat in introducing China to the world. Fu can explain China's tough stance on some issues with a smile on her face."

Arzt also noted Fu Ying possesses a foresight consciousness and can respond rapidly to international issues. "Most importantly, as a spokesperson, she can communicate in her own words, rather than using cold diplomatic language."