ACROFAN

CGTN: Bridging dialogue: China promotes integration, mutual learning among civilizations

GCI promotes dialogue among civilizations to become a world trend: Global Times

Civilizational dialogue a must in turbulent world: Global Times

China, Spain boost supply chain cooperation

Xinhua Silk Road: Ningxia goji berries claim over 61 pct of China's online retail sales market in 2024

Xinhua Silk Road: China's Liangzhu kicks off dialogue between Chinese, Roman civilizations

Shaanxi Week Unveiled at the China Pavilion of Expo 2025 Osaka

AIM B2B Launches in Tokyo to Transform B2B Marketing in Asia

McCann Worldgroup Appoints Ida Rezvani President, Global Chief Client Officer

NEW YORK, July 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- McCann Worldgroup today announced the appointment of Ida Rezvani as President, Global Chief Client Officer, McCann & McCann Worldgroup. In this newly created role, Rezvani will enhance value and innovation across the network's global portfolio of clients, leveraging her 20+ years of client leadership experience working with iconic global brands at Publicis and Dentsu. Reporting to Daryl Lee, Global CEO, McCann & McCann Worldgroup, Rezvani will accelerate and scale new capabilities and practices that deepen client relationships and expand the strategic and creative services provided to global clients. Those services include McCann Content Studios and McCann Truth Central, amongst others. "At McCann, we are restless in our pursuit of client value and seek to constantly innovate the creativity and capabilities we bring to our global clients and their brands," said Lee. "Ida is a black belt in client stewardship and a fierce champion of the power of global brands. We are excited to be welcoming this true global citizen to our McCann team." Rezvani joins McCann Worldgroup from Publicis, where she served as the Global Client Lead for Pfizer, leading a fully integrated team that drove marketing transformation and delivered significant ROI. Prior to that, she held leadership positions at Dentsu Americas and WPP, consistently driving revenue growth, client satisfaction, and leading award-winning creative work including Effies and IPA Effectiveness for brands including Subway, Virgin Trains, and Grand Prix for M&S, and a Cannes Lion for Crayola. "I am thrilled to join McCann, the Truth Well Told agency, and a team that is so deeply committed to the power of brands to reshape the world," said Rezvani. "I look forward to working with the incredible people around the globe to deliver radical creativity that drives real impact for our global clients and community." Rezvani's appointment follows several high-profile recognitions for the network, including at this year's Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, where McCann successfully showcased its commitment to building enduring global brands with award-winning work for L'Oreal Paris, Mastercard and Xbox. McCann Worldgroup was also named to Fast Company's coveted list of Most Innovative Companies 2025 for its work with Microsoft and Mastercard. About McCann McCann builds enduring brands and businesses that drive growth and leave a lasting impact on culture. Founded over 100 years ago and guided by the enduring brand platform, "Truth Well Told," McCann is the world's leading advertising agency network, generating some of the most creatively and commercially impactful advertising globally. McCann is the founding agency of McCann Worldgroup and part of the Interpublic Group of Companies (NYSE: IPG). About McCann Worldgroup McCann Worldgroup, part of the Interpublic Group (NYSE: IPG), is a leading global creative solutions company. The company is united across 100+ countries by a mission to build enduring brands together. In 2024, McCann Worldgroup was named Global Network of the Year by the Effie Awards, Network of the Year by the ANDYs and Network of the Year by the EPICA Awards for the sixth time. The core McCann Worldgroup network is comprised of McCann, MRM, CRAFT, and FutureBrand, and partners with Momentum Worldwide, Weber Shandwick and UM to deliver solutions across the entire marketing spectrum. For more information, visit mccannworldgroup.com.

Overseas Event of the Hungary-Serbia Railway Cultural Integration Midsummer Annual Meeting Successfully Held in Budapest

BUDAPEST, Hungary, July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On July 8, Hungary, the China Railway Group Limited (CREC) Overseas Event of the Hungary-Serbia Railway Cultural Integration Midsummer Annual Meeting was successfully held at the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music in Budapest. Premiere Performance of "Álmainkat Együtt Valósítjuk Meg" This event, jointly organized by CREC, the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music, Eötvös Loránd University, and other institutions, used music as a medium and the railway as a link to bring together government officials, business leaders, academics, and cultural figures from China and Hungary. Through diverse formats such as report releases, cooperation signings, artistic performances, and youth dialogues, the event comprehensively showcased the fruitful achievements of the Hungary-Serbia Railway construction and played a harmonious symphony of people-to-people connectivity between China and Hungary. Vice-President Fekete Gyula of the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music delivered the welcome address on behalf of the organizers. He highlighted that the Academy has established stable collaborations with prominent Chinese music institutions such as the Central Conservatory of Music and the Shanghai Conservatory of Music. Thanks to the successful construction of the Hungary-Serbia Railway, places once taking weeks by horse-drawn carriage for Liszt to reach are now accessible within hours. He hoped that the special composition created by the Academy's students for this railway would serve as a bond resonating with both Chinese and Hungarian people. Ambassador Gong Tao of China to Hungary noted that practical cooperation between the two countries has brought tangible benefits to their people. He encouraged more Hungarian friends to experience the unique charm of Chinese culture firsthand and hoped that more Hungarian enterprises in China and Hungarian universities would become envoys of Sino-Hungarian friendship and cultural exchange, ensuring the ship of friendship sails steadily along the "golden channel". At the event, "Álmainkat Együtt Valósítjuk Meg", co-created by CREC and the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music, was performed in both Chinese and Hungarian at the Academy's concert hall. The bilingual Chinese-Hungarian performance, enriched by the melodious tones of the pentatonic scale, harmonized with the Danube River's shimmering waters outside, painting a cultural picture of the "Iron Silk Road". Additionally, the "CREC – Eötvös Loránd University Summer Internship Program for Hungarian Students Studying in China" was officially launched, providing Hungarian students an opportunity to gain firsthand experience and understanding of China.

The Orchid Awards Ceremony 2025 Held in Beijing

BEIJING, July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On July 10, the Orchid Awards Ceremony 2025 was held in Beijing. The Orchid Awards aims to actively implement the Global Civilization Initiative. The awards recognize and honor international individuals or institutions that have made outstanding contributions to promoting the common values of humanity, advancing exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, and strengthening the cultural foundation for building a community with a shared future for mankind. This year's winners include Irina Bokova from Bulgaria, Rashid Alimov from Tajikistan, Maxime Vivas from France, and the Philadelphia Orchestra from the United States, among ten distinguished international individuals and institutions. jwplayer.key="3Fznr2BGJZtpwZmA+81lm048ks6+0NjLXyDdsO2YkfE=" The Orchid Awards Ceremony 2025 Held in Beijing jwplayer('myplayer1').setup({file: 'https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2728757/1.mp4', image: 'https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2728757/1.mp4?p=medium', autostart:'false', stretching : 'uniform', width: '512', height: '288'}); The award recipients believe in today's world of intertwined turbulence and uncertainty, where humanity faces a common future, peace and development are the common aspiration of all. Enhancing mutual understanding and friendship among peoples and building consensus on international cooperation are widely shared expectations. There is an urgent need to encourage more cultural envoys to collectively contribute to the beautiful tapestry of human civilization. The winners stated that harmony must be upheld as a core value to foster a shared civilizational consensus for peace and cooperation; that all should advocate seeking common ground while reserving differences to shape an open and inclusive civilizational paradigm; that mutual learning should be strengthened for advancing dialogue and cooperation among civilizations, and that both preservation and innovation are essential for building a civilizational ecosystem based on extensive participation and shared benefits. They expressed their commitment to making new and greater contributions to forging civilizational consensus, promoting cultural prosperity, enhancing people-to-people ties for more progress of human civilization. The Orchid Awards Ceremony 2025 was hosted by China International Communications Group (CICG) and organized by the Orchid Awards Secretariat. Over 300 participants attended, including representatives from Chinese government departments, international organizations, diplomatic missions in China, Chinese and foreign think tanks, and the media. From July 9 to 14, the visit programs of the 2nd Orchid Awards - "Travelogue of China" - will also take place in Beijing and Harbin.

ZOWIE Launches First-Ever ZOWIE Zone in Sydney - An Immersive Experience Tailored for FPS Gamers

SYDNEY, July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BenQ's professional esports brand ZOWIE proudly announces the official launch of its first ZOWIE Zone in Australia, now open at WY Gaming (Level 1/382 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000). This immersive gaming space is designed to deliver a tournament-grade experience for FPS (First-Person Shooter) gamers looking to push their skills to the next level. The ZOWIE Zone allows FPS players to test and play like a pro with ZOWIE's latest monitors, the XL2566X+ and XL2586X+, which are used in the highest level of competition such as IEM Melbourne for CS2 and VCT Champions Pacific in Valorant. ZOWIE Zone Highlights: First official ZOWIE Zone in Australia Hands-on experience with ZOWIE XL2566X+ / XL2586X+ monitors Optimised for FPS titles like CS2, Valorant, and more Designed to replicate pro tournament environments Located inside the popular WY Gaming esports venue in Sydney CBD BenQ Australia B2C Head Shawn Zheng comments: "With the launch of ZOWIE Zone in Sydney, we aim to provide FPS players with a professional-grade environment where they can truly experience the full potential of our esports gear. This marks a key milestone in expanding ZOWIE's global footprint." Visit the ZOWIE Zone Today The ZOWIE Zone is now available for bookings and walk-ins. Whether you're a competitive player, streamer, or just a curious enthusiast, you're welcome to drop by and experience the gear that pros endorse and recommend. For a limited time, ZOWIE and WY Gaming are offering free game time for our subscribers of the ZOWIE Newsletter. By subscribing, you'll also be the first to know about the latest information on ZOWIE gear and events. Location: WY Gaming, Level 1/382 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000 Opening Hours: Open 7 days, 10AM – 1AM Learn more at: zowie.benq.com

Beijing Review: Bound by a Shared Vision

BEIJING, July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On July 6-7, Brazil hosted the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, the first summit following the latest rounds of expansion, adding a new member in January and new partner countries in January and June. &amp;amp;amp;nbsp;A partnership forged with the right approach defies geographical distance; it is thicker than glue and stronger than metal and stone An ancient Chinese saying offers a fitting description of the framework: "A partnership forged with the right approach defies geographical distance; it is thicker than glue and stronger than metal and stone." It comes from the Qiaozi, a collection of essays on statecraft, ethics and social relations written by the prominent Chinese scholar and official Qiao Zhou during the Three Kingdoms period (220-280). The sentence highlights that when partnerships are built on the right principles, even great distances cannot keep people apart. Such bonds are more adhesive than glue and more enduring than metal and stone. On September 4, 2017, at the plenary session of the BRICS Summit in Xiamen, Fujian Province in southeast China, President Xi Jinping quoted the classic line in his speech. He called on the BRICS countries—then consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa—to uphold the spirit of solidarity and cooperation. He urged them to deepen their partnership in all respects and set sail toward a brighter future. Following the first meeting of foreign ministers of Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC) in 2006, the start of cooperation among member countries, the inaugural BRIC Summit took place in June 2009. In April 2011, at the BRICS Summit in Sanya, China's southernmost island province of Hainan, South Africa made its formal debut as a member of the BRICS family. In September 2017, the BRICS Summit in Xiamen outlined the BRICS Plus framework, paving the way for the group to include more partners. As of June this year, the original four-member group had expanded into a group comprising 11 members and 10 partner countries. BRICS has become a constructive force on the global stage, promoting economic growth, enhancing governance and advancing greater democracy in international relations. Both a builder of and contributor to BRICS, China has injected positive, stable and constructive energy into the world through the mechanism. In September 2024, China and Brazil, in collaboration with other Global South countries, initiated a group of Friends for Peace to address the Ukraine crisis, amplifying the voice for peace. The China-BRICS Artificial Intelligence Development and Cooperation Center fosters an innovative BRICS network and high-quality development. China is also leveraging its strengths in electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries and photovoltaic products to advance green cooperation with other BRICS countries and contribute to global sustainable development. With a consistent commitment to openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation, China is driving the platform toward high-quality growth. In today's complex global landscape, BRICS countries must stand in solidarity, embrace openness and inclusiveness and work toward mutual benefit. Together, they can contribute strength to building a more equal, multipolar world and a globalization that is inclusive and benefits all. Comments to lanxinzhen@cicgamericas.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cachinachic/video/7523985830151474463?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7227134149436605995 X: https://x.com/beijingreview/status/1941878403940163868?s=46&t=yfVMVdMyE2zKAFrYaLoV-g Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BJReview/videos/1041442704740315 Weibo:https://weibo.com/1719349955/PzTUKp8aY Website:https://www.bjreview.com/Multimedia/Video/Wisdom_Without_Borders/202507/t20250707_800407342.html

Harbin upgrades Ice-Snow World for summer, boosting all-season and all-hour tourism

HARBIN, China, July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- This is a report from Xinhuanet: Harbin, capital of China's Heilongjiang Province, announced plans to launch a summer edition of its renowned Ice-Snow World attraction in 2025. The expansion will introduce five signature attractions and ten innovative experiences, transforming the traditionally winter-focused destination into a year-round tourism hub through new seasonal programming. The summer edition will showcase five attractions: the 23rd China Harbin International Beer Festival, the riverside performance "Encounter Harbin," the panoramic fantasy show "The King's Chariot," the Dream Ice and Snow Pavilion, and the Ice and Snow Art Gallery of the Sun Island scenic spot. The attraction will introduce ten signature projects to complement its offerings. The Snow Rhyme Lilac Torch Square is set to become a new check-in spot, while the snowflake-shaped Ferris wheel will provide unprecedented aerial views of the city. Eco-camping zones and RV hubs will cater to the growing demand for leisure accommodation. Cutting-edge technology takes center stage with "Ice Dragon's Pearl," a fully immersive VR experience that merges winter themes with digital innovation. The classic car exhibition will showcase the evolution of automotive design through iconic vintage models. These facilities – comprising the Dream Stage performance venue, Starlight Sports Complex, Four Seasons Recreation Center and Sun Island Green Sports Park – collectively constitute an integrated cultural and recreational destination. Among the five core offerings, this year's Harbin International Beer Festival is set to be the largest in its history, featuring themed areas including the Dream Stage, large beer tents, and the Snow Rhyme Lilac Torch Square. A series of music festivals and live concerts will also be staged. Under the theme 'Raise a Glass to Invite the World to Enjoy Harbin,' the event will highlight the city's distinctive charm as a vibrant summer destination. As winter fades into summer, Harbin is building on its record tourism season to become both an "Ice City" and a "Summer Capital." Earlier this year, the 9th Asian Winter Games brought together over 1,270 athletes from 34 countries and regions. On February 7, the day of the opening ceremony, flight bookings to Harbin increased by 47 percent year-on-year. During the 2025 Spring Festival, Harbin received 12.15 million visits, with international arrivals up 144.7 percent. Harbin has also been designated as one of China's ten international aviation hubs. As the second city after Sapporo, Japan, to host the Games twice, Harbin is redefining itself from a winter hotspot to a year-round destination.

blackx and Japanese Music Icon Haruomi Hosono Begin a New Chapter in Sound and Legacy

Partnership includes future tours, merchandise and archival projects SINGAPORE and TOKYO, July 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- blackx, a leader in music-focused investments across Asia, has entered a landmark partnership with Japanese music icon Haruomi Hosono, one of the most influential figures in modern music. Across more than five decades, Hosono has shaped the sound of Japan and inspired generations of artists worldwide from defining Japanese folk rock with Happy End, to pioneering electronic music with Yellow Magic Orchestra (YMO) and building a genre-defying solo career including ambient, exotica and sound collage. "Hosono-san's legacy is unmatched, he is a true pioneer and a legend in Japan," said Hiroki Shirasuka, Head of Japan for blackx. "We are honoured to support his next chapter to expand and cement his musical legacy for new generations of audiences worldwide." Through this partnership, blackx will work closely with Hosono to bring his legacy to new audiences around the world. The collaboration marks his return to Europe with a live show in London and a Dover Street Market (DSM) Pop-Up partnership in Paris in July 2025 (see appendix) and will expand into a broader slate of creative projects including merchandise, reissues, exhibitions, and a digital museum experience that captures Hosono's influence. A limited-edition Hosono capsule collection, designed by icon Kiko Mizuhara and designer Hijiri, will also be released. Featuring apparel and accessories, the debut line will launch exclusively at DSM in Paris. "blackx suddenly appeared before me like an angel and decided to support my future activities overseas. What incredible luck! All the best!" Haruomi Hosono said. A Legacy of Firsts Born in Tokyo in 1947, Haruomi Hosono began his musical journey with the psychedelic rock band Apryl Fool. He went on to co-found Happy End with Takashi Matsumoto, Eiichi Ohtaki, and Shigeru Suzuki, a band that broke from convention by singing folk rock in Japanese. Their track "Kaze wo Atsumete" from album Kazemachi Roman (1971) gained global recognition after its inclusion in Sofia Coppola's Lost in Translation. In 1978, Hosono formed the legendary YMO with Ryuichi Sakamoto and Yukihiro Takahashi. Their use of synthesizers, sequences, drum machines and 8-bit samples helped lay the foundation for video game music, synth-pop and techno. In May this year, YMO was honoured as a "Symbol of Music" at the inaugural Music Awards Japan as a tribute to their lasting cultural impact. Hosono's solo work is a lifelong study in exploration and reinvention. Hosono House (1973) fused Japanese folk with American country, Paraiso (1978) delved into exotica and Cochin Moon (1978) broke open psychedelic electronic music. Across the decades, he has influenced and collaborated with artists across genres and generations. From Japan to the World blackx's partnership with Haruomi Hosono is the second collaboration in Japan this year, following the March announcement to lead the global expansion of J-pop with ASOBISYSTEM. These partnerships signal deepening trust and creative alignment within one of the world's most influential music ecosystems, as well as a joint belief in the global resonance of Japan's music culture. "It's truly a privilege to partner with one of the most important artists of all time. Hosono-san's music transcends time and borders, and he sits among the few in the pantheon of music legends," said blackx's CEO Tan Chee Meng. "blackx is proud to play a part in the stewardship of his legacy, introducing his lifeworks to new generations of fans around the world and creating further value by supporting his upcoming creative endeavours as he continues to break new ground." Hosono's journey has been one of curiosity, creativity and experimentation. His legacy is not just a catalog of music but a blueprint for how sound can evolve, inspire and endure. This reflects blackx's broader ambition to partner and invest in Asian artists and cultural works that transcends borders, genres and generations. About blackx blackx invests in music royalties and related intellectual property (IP) assets across Asia. With a comprehensive approach to IP management, creation and distribution, blackx acquires, partners with, and supports artists and rights holders to unlock growth, expand reach, and deliver sustainable returns. Led by experienced music industry insiders in Asia, blackx stays ahead of the evolving landscape and embraces technology to connect the region's rich and diverse music heritage with a global audience, fostering greater appreciation for Asian music and culture worldwide. About Haruomi Hosono Haruomi Hosono is one of Japan's most influential musicians with a career spanning more than five decades. From founding folk rock band Happy End to establishing the electronic trio Yellow Magic Orchestra, Hosono has continually pushed the boundaries of sound. His genre-defying solo work explores everything from ambient and exotica to experimental pop and sound collage. A quiet radical with a global influence, Hosono's music has shaped generations of artists from Tatsuro Yamashita and Cornelius to Depeche Mode, David Bowie, Afrika Bambaataa, Harry Styles, and Mark Ronson and his work remains a living archive of innovation. For further information, please contact: media@blackx.asia Download images here. Appendix: Haruomi Hosono – Live in Europe 2025 Date City Venue 11 July Paris, France Dover Street Market (DJ set) 19 July London, UK The Royal Festival Hall at Southbank Centre

Huawei Unveils New Products and XMAGE Awards 2025 at Fashion Next Event in Dubai

DUBAI, UAE, July 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Huawei today announced that it will host the Fashion Next product launch event in Dubai on July 10. The showcase will debut the HUAWEI Pura 80 Series and HUAWEI MatePad 11.5, alongside major updates for the XMAGE Awards 2025, Huawei's global photography competition celebrating artistic excellence. Over the past two years, Huawei has strengthened its leadership in the Chinese market while making a powerful resurgence globally. The brand continues to drive innovation with next-generation foldable screen technology, superior imaging capabilities, and fashion-forward wearable designs. Initiatives like GoPaint, Huawei's intuitive digital painting app, and the XMAGE Awards underscore its commitment to bridging cultures through art and technology. By engaging deeply with local communities and expanding its worldwide presence, Huawei fosters meaningful connections across borders. Zhu Ping, President of Huawei Device Business Marketing and Sales Services, said, "Huawei is steadfastly progressing in international markets, from launching flagship devices to nurturing meaningful connections within local communities abroad. We remain dedicated to our founding vision, continually enhancing the scenario experiences and technology products for global consumers. Today in Dubai, we proudly unveiled the Pura 80series, featuring exceptional imaging capabilities through innovative technology, empowering mobile photography to more vividly capture the thoughts and emotions of creators." The flagship Pura 80 Series marks Huawei's highly anticipated return to the global smartphone arena, offering three distinct models. Originally rebranded in 2024, the Pura series combines avant-garde design with high-performance mobile technology, redefining the intersection of fashion and functionality. The new lineup is expected to receive strong consumer demand. HUAWEI Pura 80 Series Meanwhile, Huawei tablets continue gaining momentum in international markets, becoming a top choice for education and mobile productivity thanks to their versatile, scenario-driven applications. The MatePad 11.5 has already captivated users worldwide with its fluid multi-tasking performance and seamless cross-device connectivity, while the upcoming model is set to raise the bar in display innovation and productivity-centric features, addressing evolving user needs. Huawei tablets Beyond delivering innovative products, Huawei continues to pioneer the fusion of fashion with emotional connectivity, empowering users to become the authors of their digital lives. The XMAGE Awards 2025, which launched globally on June 11, has attracted participants from over 170 countries and regions since its inception in 2017, with nearly 5 million submissions to date. Recognized as one of the world's most influential celebrations of mobile photography, the program has evolved into a cultural bridge linking Huawei with its global community—encouraging users to capture meaningful moments and share their personal vision through images. With the global debut of the HUAWEI Pura 80 Series, Huawei's XMAGE imaging technology is set to redefine smartphone photography and transform the visual experience for users everywhere. HUAWEI XMAGE Awards 2025 Industry analysts highlight Huawei's ongoing presence in Kantar's "Global Most Valuable Tech Brands" ranking as evidence of its strong international brand equity. By expanding its global product portfolio and making sustained investments in channel development, retail, and community engagement, Huawei is not just meeting the diverse needs of consumers worldwide but also reshaping the connected device ecosystem through technological innovation and fostering more meaningful user interactions. Photo - https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2727869/image_1.jpg?p=medium600Photo - https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2727873/image_2.jpg?p=medium600Photo - https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2727872/image_3.jpg?p=medium600

TGE Announces Important Strategic Expansion Initiative

PARIS, NEW YORK and SINGAPORE, July 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Generation Essentials Group. (NYSE: TGE) (the "Company" or "TGE"), a global media, entertainment and experiencing company, covering high fashion, arts, lifestyle, cultural, entertainment as well as F&B, today announced its intention to implement a business expansion and acquisition strategy in sectors with strategic adjacency. It may take the form of TGE sponsoring and listing a series of special purpose acquisition companies (each a "SPAC"), which then seeks to conduct various "de-SPAC" business combinations with to-be-identified acquisition targets, each represents a platform extension, positioning TGE to accelerate growth in different focuses and various area outside of its current core competency as of now, creating synergies and enlarging overall values to shareholders in accretive ways. Potential areas of focus will be in the media (lifestyle, sports, movies etc), entertainment (film studio, production company, post production areas etc), streaming platforms (music, videos, podcasts etc). TGE will be seeking, through a series of SPACs or other means, various an acquisition targets that are complementary to its existing portfolio, creating synergies across the broader TGE ecosystem. TGE Founder and Director Dr. Calvin Choi noted "an acquisition strategy like this will give TGE an advantage to accelerate its expansion and embrace new values and segments, enlarging the company's global influences and presence." About The Generation Essentials GroupThe Generation Essentials Group, jointly established by AMTD Group, AMTD IDEA Group (NYSE: AMTD; SGX: HKB) and AMTD Digital Inc. (NYSE: HKD), is headquartered in France and focuses on global strategies and developments in multi-media, entertainment, and cultural affairs worldwide as well as hospitality and VIP services. TGE comprises L'Officiel, The Art Newspaper, movie and entertainment projects. Collectively, TGE is a diversified portfolio of media and entertainment businesses, and a global portfolio of premium properties. About AMTD GroupAMTD Group is a conglomerate with a core business portfolio spanning across media and entertainment, education and training, and premium assets and hospitality sectors. About AMTD IDEA GroupAMTD IDEA Group (NYSE: AMTD; SGX: HKB) represents a diversified institution and digital solutions group connecting companies and investors with global markets. Its comprehensive one-stop business services plus digital solutions platform addresses different clients' diverse and inter-connected business needs and digital requirements across all phases of their life cycles. AMTD IDEA Group is uniquely positioned as an active super connector between clients, business partners, investee companies, and investors, connecting the East and the West. For more information, please visit www.amtdinc.com or follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") at @AMTDGroup. About AMTD Digital Inc.AMTD Digital Inc. (NYSE: HKD) is a comprehensive digital solutions platform headquartered in France. Its one-stop digital solutions platform operates key business lines including digital media, content and marketing services, investments as well as hospitality and VIP services. For AMTD Digital's announcements, please visit https://ir.amtdigital.net/investor-news. Safe Harbor StatementThis press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "aims," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "likely to," and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the beliefs, plans, and expectations of TGE, AMTD IDEA Group and/or AMTD Digital, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the filings of TGE, AMTD IDEA Group and AMTD Digital with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and none of TGE, AMTD IDEA Group and AMTD Digital undertakes any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law. Investor Relations:For AMTD IDEA Group:IR OfficeAMTD IDEA GroupEMAIL: ir@amtdinc.com For AMTD Digital Inc.:IR OfficeAMTD Digital Inc.EMAIL: ir@amtdigital.com For The Generation Essentials Group:IR OfficeThe Generation Essentials GroupEMAIL: tge@amtd.world

Cities key to building closer SCO community

Dialogue: Urban cooperation will serve as powerful driver BEIJING, July 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from chinadaily.com.cn: Guests interact on Tuesday before the opening of the Global Mayors Dialogue · SCO Summit Cities event in Tianjin. WANG JING / CHINA DAILY Officials from major cities tied to summits of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization stressed heightened collaboration in connectivity, digitalization and people-to-people exchanges on Tuesday, positioning urban cooperation as a pillar for regional integration ahead of the grouping's Tianjin summit. Senior city officials, media representatives and think tank leaders who convened in Tianjin for the Global Mayors Dialogue • SCO Summit Cities event underscored the strategic role of cities in building a closer SCO community with a shared future. Tianjin will host the summit in autumn, marking the fifth time that China has hosted the landmark event since the group's founding in 2001. Wang Xu, executive vice-mayor of Tianjin, stressed the readiness of the municipality to step up cooperation with cities that have hosted SCO summits to advance integrated development, strengthen city governance, and work together to push forward the Belt and Road Initiative. He called for shared efforts to deepen industrial cooperation, strengthen trade and economic ties, and jointly build smart and well-managed cities, adding that Tianjin is ready to share its experience in urban governance with SCO summit cities. "Let us work together to build smart, well-managed cities. By advancing 'city brain' infrastructure and embracing cutting-edge technologies such as big data, cloud computing and AI, we can enable smarter governance, predictive systems and integrated services," he said. Qu Yingpu, publisher and editor-in-chief of China Daily, said that major SCO cities, as key hubs for economic growth and international engagement, should deepen collaboration to tackle shared challenges and help build a closer SCO community with a shared future. "The most solid foundation of the SCO lies in mutual learning among civilizations, and its deepest strength comes from people-to-people ties," he said. Qu called upon SCO cities to embrace openness, inclusiveness, mutual respect and trust, and to remain grounded in people-to-people exchanges to sustain millennia-old connections and bring the "Shanghai Spirit" to life through tangible, city-level initiatives. Shen Lei, head of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Tianjin Municipal Committee, said that the city looks forward to using the event as an opportunity to deepen opening-up, enhance cross-border cooperation and unlock new opportunities for mutual benefit and shared development. She emphasized efforts to build a broad platform for connectivity, enhance both hard connectivity in infrastructure and soft connectivity in resources, and improve the modern shipping and logistics system. Tianjin has already established sister-city ties with 103 cities in 54 countries — 20 of them in SCO member states — and its partnerships are already bearing fruit. Furthermore, urban planning experts from Tianjin are contributing to the development of Asman, a newly planned city in Kyrgyzstan. In May, the first China-Europe freight train linking Tianjin directly to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, began operation. Aibek Dzhunushaliev, mayor of Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, said the city is looking to expand cooperation with SCO cities through joint initiatives in areas such as transportation, green energy, culture and tourism. "We believe that dialogue between cities forms the foundation of people-to-people diplomacy and is key to sustainable development," he said. He added that "stronger ties between capitals and major metropolitan areas can help secure long-term peace and prosperity". Alexander Beglov, governor of St. Petersburg, Russia, said in a speech delivered via video link that the complementary nature of the economies of SCO cities and St. Petersburg creates strong prospects for industrial cooperation and mutual investment. He highlighted the significance of building a digital SCO platform and a unified ecosystem of SCO cities through the adoption of technologies such as AI, big data and automation to foster smart city development. Cui Li, vice-chairperson of the Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation Commission of the SCO, said that to mark the SCO Year of Sustainable Development this year, SCO cities should strengthen the sharing of experience and jointly advance the construction of eco-friendly, livable, smart and sustainable cities. The commission will promote the establishment of more sister-city relationships among SCO countries to enable sharing and learning from experiences in urban development, she said. Shri Janesh Kain, deputy secretary-general of the SCO Secretariat, said cities that host SCO summits stand as "symbols of openness, inclusiveness and mutual learning among civilizations". "We firmly believe that urban cooperation will serve as a powerful driver in areas such as environmental protection, digital transformation, transportation links, cultural tourism and urban planning," he said. "The sharing of best practices and innovative solutions will undoubtedly benefit hundreds of millions of people."

CGTN: Why does China honor the spirit of resisting aggression?

BEIJING, July 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- CGTN has published an article on why China will commemorate the 80th anniversary of its victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, and how the country has drawn strength from its past to power modernization. The Hundred-Regiment Campaign was the largest and longest strategic offensive launched by the Eighth Route Army under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in northern China during the entire nation's resistance against Japanese aggression. Involving over 200,000 troops from 105 regiments and lasting from August 1940 to January 1941, the campaign targeted enemy infrastructure, disrupted supply lines, and significantly delayed Japan's southward expansion. More than a military milestone, it became a powerful symbol of national defiance and unity under extreme hardship – a vivid reflection of the Chinese people's unwavering resolve to resist aggression and reclaim their future. On the Eastern Front during World War II (WWII), China's prolonged resistance tied down vast numbers of Japanese troops, thereby easing pressure on Allied forces in the Pacific and Europe. In this global context, the Hundred-Regiment Campaign exemplified China's critical contribution to the world's victory over fascism, a legacy that continues to shape the nation's identity and trajectory. In recognition of its enduring role in that hard-won victory, China is preparing to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War with solemn and significant events. On September 3, it will hold a military parade in Tiananmen Square in downtown Beijing. China made tremendous sacrifices during the 14-year war of resistance, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on July 7, the 88th anniversary of the start of the entire nation's resistance against Japanese aggression, during a visit to a memorial hall commemorating the Hundred-Regiment Campaign. "If the past is not forgotten, it can serve as a guide for the future," he said. Staying true to the original aspiration Situated on the slopes of Shinao Mountain in Yangquan City, Shanxi Province, the Hundred-Regiment Campaign memorial hall is a solemn landmark commemorating a pivotal moment in history. What was once a fierce battlefield has become a place of deep national remembrance. Inside the memorial hall, exhibits and relics from the campaign bring history to life: scorched uniforms, worn-out rifles and black-and-white photographs tell stories of courage under fire. Among them are items from the "Bayonet Assault Hero Company," known for its fearless hand-to-hand combat in the most perilous conditions. The unit's legacy continues today, as it remains active in disaster relief, defense missions and peacekeeping operations. Xi laid a floral basket in tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in the war of resistance at the monument square honoring the martyrs of the campaign. The president's tribute was more than ceremonial. It was a reaffirmation of the enduring values forged in war. "No matter how far we go, we can never forget the road we've taken, or why we set out in the first place," Xi said. Drawing strength from the past to build the future Since the 18th National Congress of the CPC, Xi has visited Shanxi multiple times, expressing high expectations for its development. He has called on Shanxi to draw strength from its rich revolutionary legacy and cultural resources, and achieve new breakthroughs in high-quality growth and transformation. During July 7's visit, Xi toured Yangquan Valve Co., Ltd., where he visited the company's production workshop and product display area, interacted with workers, and learned about the region's progress in industrial upgrading and high-quality growth. A traditional coal-producing province, Shanxi has long faced the challenge of economic dependence on natural resources. In 2019, it was designated as China's first pilot province for comprehensive energy reform. Today, Shanxi is accelerating green transformation, promoting advanced manufacturing and cultivating new engines of growth. By the end of August 2024, the province had achieved 48 percent of its installed capacity in new and clean energy, representing a 14.1 percentage point increase since 2019. At the same time, local governments have tapped into red tourism – travel experiences centered around revolutionary heritage – and combined it with rural revitalization strategies. Currently, 35 themed red tourism routes spanning all 11 prefecture-level cities in Shanxi are being promoted, linking more than 3,400 revolutionary heritage sites. This cultural mobilization is driving impressive results. In 2024, Shanxi received 318 million domestic tourist visits, a 13.9 percent year-on-year increase, with total tourism revenue reaching 276.15 billion yuan (about $38.5 billion), up 25.9 percent from the previous year. The fusion of historical memory and high-quality development has helped Shanxi advance a dual transformation – both spiritual and structural – turning revolutionary spirit into a productive force for modern revitalization. As China draws strength from its revolutionary legacy to power modernization, it also continues to uphold the hard-won peace forged in the flames of war. At a time of growing global uncertainty, the values born of the war of resistance remain deeply relevant. https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-07-08/Why-does-China-honor-the-spirit-of-resisting-aggression--1EQ0hAWv9a8/p.html

CGTN: Why does China honor the spirit of resisting aggression?

WePlay Teams Up with Peach Cat for a "Dreamy Summer Adventure" in the US

WASHINGTON, July 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- WePlay, the global social entertainment platform, has officially announced a strategic partnership with the popular and adorable IP, Peach Cat! From June 6th to June 12th, WePlay is launching the "Dreamy Summer Adventure" themed collaboration exclusively in the United States. This exciting event aims to blend the real world with the charming "moe" dimension, using "social + cuteness" as its core to create an unprecedented immersive interactive experience for Gen Z users. It's all about empowering players to "play with attitude and meet like-minded friends." Image provided by WePlay Cuteness Unleashed: Your Summer Adventure Starts Now! The collaboration's IP partner, Peach Cat, is a top-tier healing and "moe" IP, renowned for its charming pink aesthetic and its core spirit of "being yourself is cool," which has made it a global social media sensation. To fully immerse players in the delightful universe of Peach Cat, WePlay has meticulously crafted exclusive collaboration content: Moe Makeover: Unlock limited-edition Peach Cat-themed virtual avatars, exquisite cards, avatar frames, and emojis. Transform into a "Peach Cat Warrior" and embark on your unique adventure. Mission Unlocks: Easily collect adorable props by daily sign-ins or completing platform tasks, lighting up your adventure compendium. This collaboration is not just a deep fusion of brand cultures; it's designed to bring users a brand-new social entertainment feast filled with "all things cute!" Every interaction promises to be full of surprises and a sense of healing. Another Successful Collaboration, Building a Diverse Entertainment Ecosystem The successful partnership with Peach Cat marks another brilliant achievement in WePlay's IP collaboration strategy. It showcases the platform's global influence and recognition beyond its local origins, further solidifying its leading position as an innovative entertainment and social platform. WePlay will continue to expand its portfolio of global premium IP collaborations, offering users richer and more novel entertainment experiences, and is committed to building a diverse and vibrant social entertainment ecosystem. WePlay: Connecting Joy, Playing Together As a platform that integrates multiple popular games with rich social features, WePlay consistently focuses on providing unique experiences for young users worldwide, creating endless possibilities for fun and making friends: Vast Game Playground: Offers a wealth of fun and relaxing games like "Space Werewolf," "Guess My Drawing," and "Who's the Spy," allowing you to team up and play with friends or new acquaintances anytime. Easily Expand Your Social Circle: Smart social matching features help you safely and conveniently connect with like-minded strangers, battling alongside them in games and chatting freely in voice rooms, making every encounter full of surprises. Looking Ahead: Deepening Global Expansion, Creating a New Era The launch of the collaboration with Peach Cat in the US market is a significant milestone in WePlay's global strategy. In the future, the platform will continue to explore innovative integrations with various cultural elements from different regions and expand diverse social scenarios. As the WePlay team stated, "We are committed to co-creating a new era of game-socialization filled with possibilities and innovation with our players." About WePlay WePlay, a subsidiary of Singapore-based WeJoy, is a new-generation global social entertainment platform that combines a variety of games with entertainment functions. With the mission "Bring joy and friends to young people around the world" and the vision "Bring people together through games, lead the trend of global online social entertainment," WePlay continues to partner with leading global IPs to create a vibrant social ecosystem that better meets the needs of young people.

Infiniti Indah Celebrates Pesta Kuantan 188, 25-27 July 2025

Adrenaline. Arts. Entertainment. One Festival for All. Expected to draw more than 60,000 domestic and international visitors KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Infiniti Indah Sdn. Bhd. (Kuantan 188), a subsidiary of Hospitality 360 Sdn. Bhd. and the hospitality arm of MAA Group Berhad, is proud to announce the return of Pesta Kuantan 188 from 25 to 27 July 2025. The iconic Kuantan 188 tower will once again become the beating heart of the celebrations, in conjunction with the official birthday celebration of His Royal Highness the Sultan of Pahang. From left: Official mascot for Tourism Malaysia’s “Visit Malaysia 2026” Manja, Manbai, Head of Secretariat Visit Malaysia 2026 Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Hospitality 360 Group President & CEO YH Dato’ Sri Naresh Mohan, Celebrity Artist Tomok, Hospitality 360 Group Business Development Director Dato Zulkifli Mohamad, Mascot Wira This year's edition promises a spectacular experience for all, featuring an unprecedented 11 signature events with something for everyone, from adrenaline junkies to music lovers and family goers. Pesta Kuantan 188 2025 is set to be the biggest and boldest celebration yet, cementing its place as Pahang's premier urban festival. The Pesta Kuantan 188 is endorsed by the Majlis Bandaraya Kuantan, Pahang State Government, Tourism Pahang and Ministry of Youth and Sports. Kuantan 188 proudly presents the first ever K188 Towerthon, happening on 26 July 2025, where participants will push their limits by climbing all 524 steps to the summit of Malaysia's second tallest tower. Officially endorsed by the Malaysia Towerrunning Association (MTA), the event marks a significant addition to the national tower running calendar. Adding to the excitement, Malaysia's very own international towerrunning champion Mr. Soh Wai Ching, will be taking part in this landmark event. Over the course of three action-packed days, adrenaline junkies can look forward to a thrilling lineup of high-octane events. Witness the Royal Pahang F3000 Powerboat Championship, where powerful machines slice through the Kuantan River at incredible speeds. Then, look to the skies as local and international daredevils take on daring BASE jumps from the towering heights of Kuantan 188. The Royal Pahang Dragon Boat Regatta 2025 is back this year in collaboration with Majlis Bandaraya Kuantan, on 25 July 2025 with teams consisting of 12 crews in the Pahang Open division and 12 crews for the Pahang Closed division, competing to win trophy, medals and cash prizes. The race will commence in front of the Jetty for the Marine Department of Kuantan and finish in front of Kuantan 188. For the first time ever, the public can take to the skies on a paramotor ride from Padang MBK 1, enjoying a breathtaking bird's eye view of Kuantan city from above. This year's Pesta Kuantan 188 will also see a heartwarming collaboration with The Driverz Club Malaysia, where a fleet of luxury vehicles will be mobilized to pick up 60 children from Rapha Children's Home Kuantan and Pertubuhan Kebajikan Anak Yatim dan Miskin Nur Iman Tanjung Lumpur Kuantan, two local orphanages for a special day at the festival. The initiative aims to bring joy and unforgettable memories to these young guests, giving them a VIP experience filled with fun, music, and inspiration amidst the vibrant festivities. The K188 E-Battle returns at Pesta Kuantan 188, bringing together top Mobile Legends players from across the region for a high-stakes showdown. Supported by the Malaysia Esports Federation (MESF) and offering a prize pool of RM20,000, the tournament will be live-streamed, delivering thrilling gameplay and intense competition straight to esports fans everywhere. The stage is set for nights of entertainment, starting with K188 Challenge: Ada Bran? X THR Gegar finals on 8:00PM, 25 July 2025, where our signature talent competition returns to unearth local gems in music, dance, and performance art, offering rising stars a platform to shine. At 8:30PM on 26 July 2025, the Main Stage of Pesta Kuantan 188 will come alive with a free all-star concert featuring some of Malaysia's most iconic voices by Ella, the Queen of Rock; the soulful Dayang Nurfaizah; the charismatic Tomok; and the energetic Akim as they deliver powerhouse vocals and chart-topping hits to thousands of fans. The highlight of the night is a spectacular drone show and a mesmerizing fireworks display. To celebrate the birthdays of KDPB The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, and KDPB Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah Binti Almarhum Sultan Iskandar Al-Haj, which is on 30 July 2025 and 5 August 2025 respectively, Kuantan 188 will also host a gala dinner on 27 July 2025 at Zenith Hotel Kuantan. "This annual event has grown significantly, thanks to the unwavering support of our generous sponsors and dedicated government agencies who help bring this three day celebration to life," said Dato' Sri Omar Naresh Mohan, President and Group CEO of Infiniti Indah. "Pesta Kuantan 188 offers three full days of fun, family friendly activities that reflect the heart and soul of Pahang's culture and communities. Each year, locals and tourists from around the world come together to experience Kuantan at its finest, and this year, we're expecting to welcome over 60,000 visitors." Pesta Kuantan 188 is supported by JY Creative Development Sdn Bhd as the main sponsor and supported by Majlis Bandaraya Kuantan, Klikx Systems Sdn Bhd, CGRE Legend Farm Sdn Bhd, LBS Bina Group Berhad, B.Grimm Power Malaysia, Kementerian Belia dan Sukan, Winfast Corporation, Berjaya Corporation Berhad, Citaglobal Berhad, Kotasas, PASDEC Holdings, Wawasan Intact Properties, T.A.S Industries Sdn. Bhd., Ahmad Zaki Resources Bhd, MAA Group Berhad, Tourism Malaysia, Tourism Pahang, LLT Group, Dancom Group, Trinidad Group, THR Gegar, Ramada Suites by Wyndham KLCC, Shahzan Hotel Kuantan, Hextar Global Berhad, RHB Bank, Wira Semangat Sdn. Bhd. Touch Group Holdings Sdn Bhd, Wyndham Garden Kuantan, and Gotifi.com. To know more about Pesta Kuantan 188, check out Instagram, Facebook and TikTok for recent updates. About Kuantan 188 Kuantan 188 is the tallest tower on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia and the second tallest in the country, standing proudly at 188 meters. The Tower is the 52nd member of the World Federation of Towers is more than just an architectural icon, Kuantan 188 is a vibrant hub for tourism, culture, and community experiences, offering panoramic views, sky dining, lifestyle attractions, and a range of exciting events year round. Strategically located along the Kuantan riverfront, the tower symbolizes the city's progress while celebrating its rich heritage, making it a must visit landmark for locals and visitors alike. About Hospitality 360 Hospitality 360 Sdn Bhd commenced trading in March 2022 as Trinidad Group of Companies, a cigar distributor and retailer. Trinidad Group has evolved to being the home to over 30 brands in multiple industries: hotel and resorts including and not exclusive to Wyndham Hotel and Resort brands, short and long stay accommodation, food and beverage, travel, tourism, ID, renovations and furnishing, logistics, warehousing, loyalty and rewards, property and facility management, cigars and accessories. As Malaysia's rising leader in hospitality, travel and tourism, Trinidad Group asset-light business model strives to develop high-performing assets focused on growth, innovation and delivery of strong returns to stakeholders. For more information, please visit www.hospitality360.my

Heavy Duty: Royal Mint Unveils Coin Celebrating Iron Maiden's 50th Anniversary

CARDIFF, Wales, July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Royal Mint has today unveiled an eye-catching commemorative coin celebrating 50 years of Iron Maiden. The East London icons are joining the ranks of musical royalty in The Royal Mint's Music Legends series, which has previously celebrated the likes of Queen, Elton John, and David Bowie. Heavy metal legends, Iron Maiden, are set to be immortalised on a UK coin with a spectacular design featuring their iconic mascot Eddie. The new commemorative coin produced by The Royal Mint coincides with Iron Maiden celebrating 50 years since their formation in 1975. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail by contemporary Iron Maiden artist Albert 'Akirant' Quirantes, the design features the band's infamous mascot Eddie in a dynamic pose that will strike a chord with fans worldwide. The design features numerous hidden 'Easter eggs' referencing the band's illustrious career, albums and world tours - giving collectors plenty to hunt for. Iron Maiden, who formed in 1975, worked closely with The Royal Mint throughout the design process, ensuring the coin captures the essence of a band whose influence has spanned five decades and counting. With a global footprint that spans the planet, Iron Maiden are one of the biggest success stories in British music, and with the international nature of coin-collecting this new commemorative piece - the first official collectable product to bear the 50th Anniversary logo is sure to delight and excite collectors and fans alike. Rod Smallwood, Maiden's Manager; "Having Eddie on an official UK coin is a continuation of his incredible odyssey since we unearthed him back in 1980. We've been on stamps, beer bottles, plane tails and now legal tender! The detail Akirant has managed to pack into the design is superb - there are little nods to virtually every chapter of our journey as a band. We're truly honoured that The Royal Mint has chosen to commemorate 50 years of Iron Maiden in such a unique way." Rebecca Morgan, Director of Commemorative Coin at The Royal Mint, commented: "Iron Maiden have been fearless pioneers in music, flying the flag for Britain around the globe for half a century. Their creative vision, powerful performances and dedicated following have earned them a place as one of Britain's most influential bands. This coin is the perfect fusion of metal on metal and we expect it will prove to be a collector's piece that's highly sought after by both numismatists and passionate rock fans alike." Albert 'Akirant' Quirantes, designer of the Iron Maiden coin said, "Designing the Iron Maiden coin has been one of the most thrilling projects of my career. As a lifelong fan of the band, and Derek Riggs' original creations in the '80s, I wanted to capture not just their iconic imagery, but also the rebellious spirit that has defined their music for decades. I've hidden several references within the design that true fans will enjoy discovering, including subtle nods to classic album artwork and their most beloved songs. It's my tribute to a band that has influenced generations of music lovers all over the world, and I hope fans will spend time exploring every detail just as passionately as they've analysed the band's lyrics over the years." Available in several editions, from standard brilliant uncirculated to limited edition precious metal proof versions, prices for the Iron Maiden coin start from £18.50. For more information about the Iron Maiden commemorative coin and to view the full range, visit www.royalmint.com/ironmaiden.

The One Gaming Upgrade You Didn't Know You Needed This Prime Day

SACRAMENTO, Calif., July 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- jwplayer.key="3Fznr2BGJZtpwZmA+81lm048ks6+0NjLXyDdsO2YkfE=" Sound-Reactive Desk Lighting Effortlessly Switch Modes jwplayer('myplayer1').setup({file: 'https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2725514/Sound_Reactive_Desk_Lighting_Effortlessly_Switch_Modes.mp4', image: 'https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2725514/Sound_Reactive_Desk_Lighting_Effortlessly_Switch_Modes.mp4?p=medium', autostart:'false', stretching : 'uniform', width: '512', height: '288'}); Upgrade Your Game This Prime Day: Introducing Bestier's Flow Vibe Gaming Desk Prime Day is approaching fast, and gamers everywhere are on the hunt for gear that can truly level up their gaming setup. While graphics cards, monitors, and gaming chairs often grab all the attention, there's one game-changing item that frequently gets overlooked but drastically influences both your performance and gaming experience—your gaming desk. Enter the Flow Vibe Gaming Desk by Bestier. Designed for passionate gamers, this isn't just a piece of furniture; it's your gateway to peak performance and immersive gaming. With its cutting-edge design and innovative features, the Flow Vibe desk transforms gaming sessions into unforgettable experiences. Feel the Flow: Customizable Lighting Syncs to Your Game The heart of the Flow Vibe Gaming Desk is its dynamic music-sync LED system. Imagine your desk lighting pulsating rhythmically in perfect harmony with every beat, rev, and explosion in your favorite game. With six vibrant colors and seven unique lighting modes—including Flash, Fade, Left/Right Pulse, and Racing Cockpit—the Flow Vibe Desk adapts effortlessly to any game environment. Dive into high-speed races where your desk reacts to acceleration, or gear up for epic battles illuminated by flashes synchronized to every victory. Ultimate Convenience: Built-in Power for Non-stop Gaming We've all faced the dreaded low-battery warning mid-game. Bestier understands that seamless gaming demands uninterrupted power. That's why the Flow Vibe Gaming Desk comes equipped with an integrated power station, featuring three AC outlets, a USB port, and a Type C charging port right at your fingertips. No more scrambling under desks or tripping over tangled cords—just plug in, stay charged, and keep your focus razor-sharp. A Steel Fortress Built for Victory The Flow Vibe Gaming Desk isn't just eye candy—it's designed for serious gameplay. Crafted from durable, high-quality steel, the desk offers unmatched stability, ensuring your gaming gear stays secure no matter how intense the action gets. Its innovative corner gaming frame and sturdy X-shaped legs promise both endurance and style, making sure your gaming battles leave marks only in virtual worlds. Space Optimized: Every Inch Counts From oversized monitors to steering wheels, controllers, and headsets, the modern gamer's desk can quickly descend into chaos. Flow Vibe tackles this head-on with thoughtfully designed storage solutions. Equipped with multiple storage shelves and an intuitive layout, it keeps everything within easy reach. Your gaming area stays organized, distraction-free, and ready for action. Perfect for Every Player and Every Setup Whether you're into high-stakes FPS battles, immersive RPG worlds, or thrilling racing sims, the Flow Vibe Gaming Desk adapts to you. Its customizable ambiance lighting and sturdy frame create the perfect stage for any gaming scenario. Picture yourself confidently steering through virtual circuits, adrenaline surging with every responsive gear shift, the glow from your desk amplifying the exhilaration. Simple Assembly, Superior Support Worried about setup? Don't be. Bestier provides clear installation manuals, easy-to-follow video guides, and includes all necessary hardware. You'll go from unboxing to playing in no time, backed by Bestier's renowned professional customer support. It's convenience from start to game-start. Prime Day Special: Lowest Price Ever! Right now, Bestier's Flow Vibe Gaming Desk is available at an all-time low Prime Day discount. Act fast—this deal only comes once a year. Don't miss your chance to upgrade your gaming space at an unbeatable price! About Bestier Bestier is committed to crafting innovative, high-quality furniture solutions designed to enhance lifestyles and elevate home environments. By combining practical function with creative aesthetics, Bestier consistently delivers exceptional value and superior customer experiences.

Global Times: From Fenyang to the world, director Jia Zhangke's 'Shanxi story' serves as a prism of shared breaths

BEIJING, July 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- An icon of Chinese contemporary auteur cinema, director Jia Zhangke draws public attention with every appearance. Recently in Shanghai, the director attended a centenary screening celebration of Charlie Chaplin's The Gold Rush, sharing with the audience his thoughts on the timeless performance of the master of comedy. Like Chaplin, who documented industrial-era lives through silent cinema, Jia's lens has always gazed upon the ordinary people of his era, yet with a specific geographical anchor: his hometown of Fenyang in North China's Shanxi Province. As a Global Times reporter, I recently had an opportunity to embark on a cultural trip to Shanxi, which brought me into the "hometown" in Jia's films. Titled "Mountains May Depart - A Shanxi Trip," the event saw the participation of several prominent Chinese cultural figures, including Chen Pingyuan, a distinguished professor of literature at Peking University; architect Wang Shu, China's first Pritzker Architecture Prize laureate; historian Lei Yi, documentary director Zhang Tongdao, director Jia and more. These people all shared one goal: to retrace the hometown stories and ordinary lives from Jia's films. Step by step, they made multiple stops to places across Fenyang, many of which had previously appeared in Jia's cinematic universe. Taifu Guan is an ancient Taoist building rooted in Fenyang's folk history. Standing at its entrance, a young film enthusiast in the team immediately recognized that it had appeared in Jia's 2013 film A Touch of Sin. Wandering around the site, visitors were chatting about the film's narratives while listening to architect Wang Shu unravel the aesthetics behind ancient Chinese roof designs. On the ride to the next destination, Fenyang's landmark Wenfeng Pagoda flickered in and out of view, reminding people of its presence in Mountains May Depart (2015). In the film, the pagoda stood as a silent witness to the life transformations of three ordinary people over a period of 26 years that unfolded against the backdrop of China's rapid modernization blended with infused Western influence. Though he never physically appeared in the film, Jia told the Global Times that he could "always find himself in those characters." He also revealed that the death of the father of Shen Tao (the film's protagonist) was drawn from his own experience. "I did not tell Zhao Tao [who plays Shen in the film and is Jia's wife in real life], since I was afraid it would overwhelm her emotionally," he noted. Be it the inevitable life's pain portrayed by Zhao or the native sites like the Wenfeng Pagoda captured in film, Jia's works are rooted in his hometown observations, but also poses a question to viewers: How can such personal home storytelling resonate with more people? The answer seemed to gradually become clear at the trip's final stop: the Open Village cultural space in Jiajiazhuang village, where Jia guided audiences through his two films Mountains May Depart and Swimming Out Till the Sea Turns Blue (2020) during a film forum. At the forum discussion, historian Lei Yi shared that in Jia's film he could "detect the spirit of an era behind those average Joes." For example, in the film, when Western-educated Chinese kid Daole calls his Fenyang-born mother "mummy" rather than "ma," such a scene subtly connotes cultural globalization's impact on traditional Chinese filial bonds. "Unlike many films that turn ordinary people into symbolic heroes, the director depicts small characters with time, accuracy and authenticity," said Lei. Though not a filmmaker, architect Wang Shu found that his architectural practice shares a similar creative stance with Jia's cinema. He described this stance as an "amateur spirit," but noted this does not imply incompetence, but rather an artistic mind-set of valuing curiosity and the spirit of experimentation. Wang was not the only "amateur" among the audience. Seated near him, lawyer Wu Zhuoyun compared his personal life experience to that of the film's character Daole, noting how he had lived through the very era depicted in Mountains May Depart. Born in a small city in northern Shaanxi Province and later studying abroad, Wu experienced an interplay of local and global cultures that not only reshaped his understanding of "hometown nostalgia," but also deepened his grasp of the film's title. "We may meet others along the journey of our times, but bidding farewell to those we hold dear remains inevitable," said Wu. Whether it is a lawyer, architect or historian, people from different walks of life seemed to have all resonated with the director's movie. Scholar Chen Pingyuan told the Global Times that this universal appeal stems from how Jia's narratives are "imbued with literary sensibility," which invite viewers to imagine and coauthor their own scenarios. "Watching the film reminds me of the Chinese idiom 'yu shuo huan xiu' [lit: words tremble into silence]. You realize none of the stories are fully told, yet the emotional restraint creates aesthetic tension. This narrative reservation is, in essence, a form of literary sensibility," Chen noted. Describing himself a "devotee to literature," Jia's passion for literature finds its most vivid expression in his documentary film Swimming Out Till the Sea Turns Blue, which screened after Mountains May Depart. The documentary was filmed at Jiajiazhuang village. The director said that the village's literary heritage heavily inspired this picture. For decades, this village battled barren saline-alkali land, yet nurtured writers like Ma Feng, a Chinese literary giant of rural realism. Carrying a pioneer's passion for his rural homeland, Jia invited writers like Yu Hua to interpret the interplay between Chinese literature, rural memory, and societal transformation through their own life experiences. The director told the Global Times that "So Close to My Land" was the film's original title. The title stands as a tribute to the native soil that gives rise to artistic expression, be it in film or literature. "To understand rural China is to grasp both the context and key to comprehending contemporary China," he said. As the film forum concluded at midnight, this Shanxi cultural trip appeared to be reaching its end. Yet the audience would have lingered indefinitely had the director continued speaking. Though wearied by the day's labors, Jia nevertheless carved out time for an interview with the Global Times. "He hardly ever turns down anyone truly interested in his art," a member of Jia's crew told the Global Times. 'My films are not just about Shanxi, but about China' Editor's Note: Chinese director Jia Zhangke (Jia) has created many films capturing his hometown of Fenyang. Yet, he never saw his "Shanxi stories" as mere regional narratives, but rather as reflections of ordinary people's shared destinies. During an interview with the Global Times reporter Li Yuche (GT), Jia shared what matters to him the most in his career, how he crafts stories, and his perspectives on literature and AI. GT: Your films focus on the fate of ordinary people amid changing times. Why anchor your creative approach in such a microscopic perspective? Jia: Throughout my creative process, I have always valued individual perspectives. I believe the "auteur quality" in cinema lies in an honest, personal reaction to reality - whether from a director or screenwriter. We shouldn't aim to film a "concept" but rather to capture "human experience." Concepts emerge gradually through the process of experience. Art cannot exist solely as an abstract idea without referring to reality. However, observed reality must be transformed through imagination to become a reality tailored for film. I am a firm fictionalist because I believe fiction is the only path to truth. GT: As a director, what is your entry point for reimagining reality? Jia: For me, I was born and raised in a county town. The place I live functions as a node between rural and urban spheres. Things and people related to this node offer me inspiration. Behind it, it is not just me, but a vast number of ordinary people. From this perspective, I believe I tell the story of the majority, the story of collective subjectivity. I think directors with different upbringings and emotional dispositions are concerned about different people. That's why I've always believed that China needs a large number of directors. Only through their diverse perspectives can we construct a relatively comprehensive narrative of China. GT: How does your "Fenyang rural-urban experience" go beyond its regional specificity to resonate with more people? Jia: The regional characteristics are undeniable, but nowadays, human destinies are becoming increasingly interconnected. Therefore, the realities witnessed in China are also the world's realities. I believe China, with its massive population and rapid development, is a country that cannot be ignored. Our appeal and the realities we face deserve to be heard globally. To be honest, while many characters and stories in my films unfold in Shanxi or begin from there, I've never felt that I was making "Shanxi films." I've always felt that I was making films about China. My deepest understanding of Shanxi's narrative is this: We are all part of a shared destiny, so the struggles, challenges, and diverse circumstances faced by people in Shanxi are national in scope. For Chinese filmmakers, when telling stories about our nation, what matters most is conveying the genuine feelings within our hearts. Only then can we create narratives that move and convince others. GT: As Global Times reporters, we care deeply about the Chinese people's perspectives of the world. We're curious about what motivated you to make the film The World? Jia: The World was made in 2004, a period of intense globalization. An accidental opportunity came about due to my wife Zhao Tao's past employment at The Window of the World, a theme park in Shenzhen. This theme park revealed people's yearning to connect with the world at a time when international travel remained inaccessible to most. Yet the park's employees were puzzled by a great many practical problems, among which there were many personal choices, and the choices each person faced was also different. I suddenly felt that the park was a dramatic space: a seemingly globalized landscape with individuals dealing with their life conundrums. The contrast between such a space and the real world made me particularly interested in shooting this film. GT: If you were to remake The World now, what changes would there be? Jia: If I were to film the park today, I would imagine it appearing as a wasteland. Especially since today's online information has, in some ways, transcended national boundaries. Additionally, with China's economic rise, international travel to genuinely experience the world has become much more accessible. Amid the assault of protectionism and conservatism on free-trade globalization, what we should film now is precisely this critical moment - as globalization collapses or nears its end, we should capture the human and social dilemmas it creates. GT: As a director, how would you interpret the relationship between literature and film? What's most crucial in adapting literature to cinema? Jia: For filmmakers, the most vital thing is possessing a literary mind-set. When we dedicate hours to telling a story on screen, it fundamentally originates from literary thinking. Through this literary thinking, we then develop visualized thinking. Through writing or reading, filmmakers should universally cultivate literary ability as an integral part of their cinematic craft. GT: How do you perceive AI's impact on auteur cinema? What interactions have you had with it? Jia: I always think that as a human, will our desire to capture the real world through a camera diminish because of AI? Absolutely not. Generating images on a computer can never replace my passion to observe the world. AI will certainly become a powerful tool, but it has to be built upon our physical filming. No matter how impressive AI-generated imagery becomes, the so-called "new content" is actually built from old materials. This is fundamentally different from holding a camera in the real world to capture nature, life, and authentic scenes. Art thrives for one enduring reason: human need. Personally, I think I won't be greatly troubled because my need to face reality through a lens remains undiminished. GT: What are the few things that matter most to you at this stage of your film career? Jia: First, I want to continue exploring new methods for interpreting observed reality. Honestly, throughout film history, you can see that emerging social conditions are hard to express with traditional methods. They push us to discover new cinematic languages, especially within today's evolving media landscape. We shouldn't dismiss or reject other visual formats. Cinema's greatness lies in its ability to absorb all new audiovisual experiences and transform itself creatively. Second, I value foresight. There is a saying that "great films carry great prophecies," and I believe in that deeply. Many works by our pioneers indeed possess prophetic power, because they were more perceptive than anyone - able to capture emerging realities while contextualizing them within historical tracks. Prophecy means having the ability to place new phenomena within the continuum of social and human development, comprehend them, and only then, through that understanding, arrive at foresight. Third, I value the ability to observe and emotional sensitivity. To be able to feel is so important to artists, regardless of era. If we don't cultivate this sensitivity and don't immerse ourselves in these experiences, we'll miss what's emerging. Every artist is a courier, tasked with sensitively delivering the newest truths of our time. This responsibility - and this ability - is something I deeply cherish.

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