In China, report without orders

The Summer Olympic Games have pushed China to become a more open society, with Beijing announced an indefinite extension of greater freedom for foreign journalists. However, this press freedom does not extend to the Tibet Autonomous Region.

This move suggests an increase in confidence on part of the Chinese Communist Party. Perhaps the ruling members are less afraid of harsh Western criticisms. After the Tiananmen Square incident, foreign journalists had to apply for permission to travel and conduct interviews on a case-by-case basis. The Summer Games lifted such restrictions.

China sees that by gradually opening up, its image and portrayal by other nations is becoming more positive.

http://www.atimes.com/atimes/China/JJ22Ad01.html