Comment on "Voice of confidence in Foreign Ministry" (China Daily, Nov 20)

As a female college student currently enrolled in a communications program, there is nothing I would wish to do more in my future career than to cover a story like Hua Chunying's.

Hua's appointment as Foreign Ministry spokeswoman is a huge step forward in the era of emerging diplomacy for China and for the rest of the world. Her appointment also represents a great change and has opened up opportunities for future generations, especially at a time when many developed countries are closely following China's every move.

Although the story shows China is making progress in balancing its male-dominated diplomatic environment, Hua's achievement should not be celebrated only because of her gender. The feedback she has received from the international media shows her gender has little to do with her success. Her resume and impressive career proves Hua is fit for the role.

Hua received positive feedback after her first news conference, primarily because the media focused on China's slow progress in terms of gender equality in diplomacy. But that does not mean there is no room for constructive criticism.

Like many reporters, I support Hua because the most important thing is not whether she was repetitive or whether she appeared confident. The most important thing is to remember that China is taking steps to balance its diplomacy by opening more doors of opportunity for women, and Hua is tangible, living proof of that.

Nadya, on China Daily website

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(China Daily 11/26/2012 page9)