27.8 C
Vientiane
Friday, June 27, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 135

Tanzania’s New Foreign Policy Signals Strategic Expansion of South-South Partnerships with Asia

DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA – EQS Newswire – 26 May 2025 – The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania has launched its revised National Foreign Policy 2021 (2024 edition), reinforcing the country’s commitment to deeper South-South cooperation, especially with China and India. The policy reflects Tanzania’s focus on economic diplomacy, cultural exchange, digital cooperation, and sustainable development.

The launch event was held on 19 May at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam, and officiated by H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania. It was also attended by Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, members of the Diplomatic Corps, senior government officials, and representatives from the private sector.

In her keynote address, President Samia said the revised policy marks a critical step in reaffirming Tanzania’s position in a changing world. “There have been a lot of changes since we introduced the national foreign policy 24 years ago in 2001. The new policy takes into account the shift in areas such as the blue and digital economy, and the creative and entertainment industry,” she said.

The updated policy provides a clear roadmap for international engagement, grounded in national interests and guided by principle. “This policy speaks on who we are as a nation—firm in our values, proactive in our diplomacy, and committed to constructive partnerships that advance peace, security, and shared prosperity,” President Samia affirmed.

Tanzania enjoys long-standing historical ties with China and India, dating back to the leadership of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, Chairman Mao Tse Tung, and Indira Gandhi. These relationships have matured into comprehensive partnerships over the past decades.

President Samia’s state visit to China in November 2022 was a defining moment in bilateral relations. Invited by President Xi Jinping, the visit upgraded ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the highest diplomatic status in Tanzania’s foreign policy framework. Agreements signed included:

  • A US$297.64 million soft loan for rural communication infrastructure,
  • A US$24.86 million grant for the expansion of the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute,
  • A US$58.3 million loan for upgrades to Zanzibar Airport,
  • Market access approvals for Tanzanian avocados and aquatic products.

In October 2023, President Samia visited India where she and President Droupadi Murmu jointly launched the Tanzania–India Strategic Partnership, expanding cooperation in health, education, agriculture, water, defense, and ICT.

During the September 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), President Samia secured RMB 200 million (approx. TZS 76 billion) in support for development projects and negotiated enhanced access to China’s US$50 billion financing and investment package. She also advanced agreements on the TAZARA railway and tariff-free exports.

President Samia has also cultivated strong relations with Japan, South Korea, and Indonesia, tapping into Asia’s economic momentum. These efforts have opened Tanzanian products to new markets, attracted high-impact investments, and fostered knowledge exchange.

During her state visit to Indonesia in January 2024, she signed seven agreements in diplomacy, trade, energy, agriculture, education, and pharmaceuticals. A business forum in Jakarta drew over 300 Indonesian investors, reflecting Tanzania’s growing economic appeal.

Her January 2024 state visit to Indonesia further strengthened Tanzania’s Asian partnerships, with seven agreements signed in sectors including diplomacy, oil and gas, education, and agriculture. A business forum in Jakarta attracted over 300 Indonesian investors.

Tanzania’s foreign policy tradition has long been rooted in non-alignment and Pan-African solidarity, especially under President Nyerere. The 2001 update under President Benjamin Mkapa marked a shift toward economic diplomacy. The 2025 revision builds on this foundation with a more integrated, innovation-driven and globally oriented approach.

Shortly after taking office in 2021, President Samia introduced the 4Rs philosophy—Reconciliation, Resilience, Reform, and Rebuilding—to guide governance and diplomacy. Through this framework, she has unified the nation, addressed global health and economic challenges, modernized foreign policy practice, and repositioned Tanzania as a respected regional and global actor.

According to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, the revised policy focuses on ten strategic areas:

  1. Economic Diplomacy – Strengthening investment and trade partnerships.
  2. Peace and Security – Supporting conflict prevention and counter-terrorism.
  3. Strategic Treaty Management – Ratification and domestication of treaties.
  4. Global Engagement – Active participation in regional and international organizations.
  5. Kiswahili Diplomacy – Promoting Kiswahili as a tool of cultural and political influence.
  6. Resource Mobilization – Securing funding for key development sectors.
  7. Blue Economy – Unlocking marine and coastal economic potential.
  8. Diaspora Engagement – Facilitating participation of Tanzanians abroad.
  9. Human Rights and Governance – Promoting democratic values in line with the Constitution.
  10. Climate Leadership – Advancing environmental protection and climate action.

President Samia has prioritized meaningful diaspora participation. At the heart of this is the proposed Special Status for Tanzanians abroad, allowing them to own land, register businesses, and invest without renouncing foreign citizenship. Amendments to the Land Act and Immigration Act have already been submitted to Parliament to support this transformative reform.

Tanzania’s revised National Foreign Policy is both a reflection of its rich diplomatic legacy and a blueprint for future global engagement. Through enhanced cooperation with China, India, and other South-South partners, President Samia has positioned Tanzania to thrive as a stable, confident, and connected player in the global arena.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Tanzania Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation.

Download Image (1): https://apo-opa.co/4dG8gji
Image Caption (1): H.E. Amb. Mindi Kasiga, Director of Communication at the Government Communications Unit of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African cooperation speaking at the Tanzania Foreign Policy 2024 Launch event in Dar es Salaam recently

Download Image (2): https://apo-opa.co/4jsKLeU
Image Caption (2): H.E. Amb. Samwel William Shelukindo, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation addresses attendees at the launch of the Tanzania Foreign Policy (2024) event in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Download Image (3): https://apo-opa.co/44M3EWm
Image Caption (3): H.E. Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council speaks during celebrations to mark the official launch of the Tanzania Foreign Policy (2024) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Download Image (4): https://apo-opa.co/45m1UDq
Image Caption (4): Young Tanzanian singers entertain the audience during celebrations to launch the Tanzania Foreign Policy (2024) recently in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Download Image (5):https://apo-opa.co/3Fowj9C
Image Caption (5): H.E. Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete former President of the United Republic of Tanzania (centre) with H.E. Amb. Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation at an event to mark the launch of Tanzania Foreign Policy (2024) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Download Image (6): https://apo-opa.co/4jeSEUP
Image Caption (6): H.E. Amb. Mahmoud Thabit Kombo speaking at the launch of the Tanzania Foreign Policy (2024) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Download Image (7): https://apo-opa.co/3SlCbU6
Image Caption (7): H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania addressing attendees at an event to officially launch the Tanzania Foreign Policy (2024) held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania recently

Hashtag: #Tanzania

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Vietnam’s Durian Farmers Power Up with XAG Drones to Boost Efficiency

MY THO, Vietnam, May 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Amid Vietnam’s “durian gold rush,” farmers are turning to smart agri-tech, notably XAG agricultural drones, to stay ahead. In the Mekong Delta, where durian exports have soared to $3.3 billion, growers use drones to cut costs, improve yields, and work more safely, adapting quickly to the demands of this booming fruit market.

Few understand these shifting tides better than Nguyễn Văn Hường, a lifelong farmer in Tiền Giang province. At 64, Hường and his wife manage more than 300 durian trees, along with 250 jackfruit and coconut trees, on a four-hectare farm. “Selling durians is like selling a house,” he says, noting that a single mature durian tree can yield nearly 100 kg of fruit a year and earn him 15 to 16 million VND.

Nguyễn Văn Hường, 64, operates his XAG P150 agricultural drone to efficiently protect his orchard in Vietnam.
Nguyễn Văn Hường, 64, operates his XAG P150 agricultural drone to efficiently protect his orchard in Vietnam.

Hường’s real edge, though, comes from his willingness to embrace innovation—a trait that traces back decades. “I was the first here to buy a backpack sprayer 50 years ago,” he recalls proudly, believing firmly that “technology brings profits.” Today, that same forward-thinking spirit once again sets Hường apart as a local pioneer, helping him tackle challenges and stay ahead of the curve.

Standing confidently in his lush orchard with a remote control in hand, Hường now relies on the XAG P150 agricultural drone—a tool that has completely changed his approach to crop protection. Before, he would row his boat between the trees, stand near each trunk, and reach up with a long-handled sprayer to coat the highest branches, which often failed to cover thoroughly and left him exhausted. “On windy days, chemicals would get on my head and in my eyes,” he explains.

By late 2024, motivated to “protect health and change traditional agriculture,” Hường invested in the drone, making the plant protection process safer, more efficient, and far less labor-intensive. It took him just three days to learn how to operate the drone, and now he manages every aspect of pesticide spraying with only a few taps on the screen.

The impact was immediate. Hường estimates that the P150’s intelligent RevoSpray system cuts water use per spray from 3,000 to just 800 liters, and what once took two tiring days now finishes in just three hours. Equipped with a 70-liter smart liquid tank and rotary atomization nozzles, the drone can spray evenly and thoroughly, sending droplets deep into the canopy where pests lurk and manual spraying can’t reach. “It used to be dizzying wearing a mask and spraying by hand, but now I can keep my distance and let the drone handle it more accurately,” Hường says.

The financial impact is also expected to be substantial. “Using drones for spraying can reduce my overall costs by about one-third. With expenses down and our work made easier, the profits would be higher,” he proudly exclaims. Last season, nearly one billion VND in revenue came from just 100 mature durian trees, thanks to higher yields and the export surge.

Hường’s experience reflects a wider movement. According to a study by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), the adoption of agricultural drones in Southeast Asia led to yield increases of up to 20% and a 30% reduction in pesticide use. For Vietnamese smallholders in regions like the Mekong Delta, adopting such technologies isn’t just about profit, it’s also about keeping pace with rising global expectations and unpredictable weather.

Word of Hường’s success has spread in the community. “If anyone asks, I’m happy to share my experience. This drone is almost fully autonomous and delivers much better spraying quality. Its automatic return-to-home function is especially convenient,” he says. “I’m really satisfied with this drone.”

From the days of hauling heavy sprayers through his orchard to now guiding a drone above bountiful trees, Hường embodies the evolution of Vietnamese farming—proving that with the right tools and openness to change, small family farms can still thrive in an increasingly competitive world.

Agoda Joins Forces with Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) To Expand Access to India’s Iconic Hospitality Portfolio

SINGAPORE, May 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda announces a strategic partnership with the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), one of India’s largest hospitality companies. This collaboration expands Agoda’s premium offerings across the globe enabling travelers internationally to access IHCL’s world-class portfolio of properties through Agoda’s platform.

Agoda Joins Forces with Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) To Expand Access to India’s Iconic Hospitality Portfolio
Agoda Joins Forces with Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) To Expand Access to India’s Iconic Hospitality Portfolio

The partnership brings 250 of IHCL’s operating properties — including iconic brands such as Taj, SeleQtions, Vivanta, Ginger, and the newly launched Claridges Collection — to Agoda’s global customer base. As Agoda celebrates its 20th birthday this year, the collaboration underscores the organization’s continued focus on enhancing customer choice, value, experience and industry partnerships in key travel markets.

“IHCL is an iconic name, and that says something in a market like India where hospitality is in a league of its own,” said Omri Morgenshtern, Chief Executive Officer at Agoda. “Under the leadership of MD & CEO Puneet Chhatwal, IHCL continues to set benchmarks in the industry. One of Agoda’s strengths is working together with the best wherever we operate, and with this partnership, we’re doing exactly that. I’m thrilled to combine IHCL’s portfolio of heritage palaces, luxury city hotels, and more with Agoda’s tech-driven solutions and global reach.”

Through this alliance, Agoda connects IHCL to its growing user base of international and intra-regional travelers, particularly from Asia Pacific and the Middle East — two regions where demand for culturally rich, luxury travel is rising fast. The collaboration is also aligned with IHCL’s strategy to grow its portfolio to over 700 hotels by 2030 and build deeper connections with the digitally savvy traveler.

“This partnership with Agoda supports our ambition of driving global awareness for IHCL’s diverse brands,” said Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL. “As travel demand continues to grow, we are confident that Agoda’s strong presence in key international source markets and its cutting-edge technology will help accelerate our growth and deepen our customer reach.”

With the Indian hospitality industry projected to grow to USD 542 billion by 2030[1], this partnership places both Agoda and IHCL in a strong position to meet the evolving expectations of global travelers.


Photo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/agoda_joins_forces_indian_hotels_company_limited__ihcl__to_expand.jpg
Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/agoda-5.jpg

Exness launches bold new global campaign, putting traders at the heart of the story

LIMASSOL, Cyprus, May 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Exness, one of the world’s largest retail brokers, has launched its latest global brand campaign, expanding on the impact of last year’s “Born to Trade.” The new campaign dives deeper into the mindset of the modern trader—capturing the drive, focus, and emotional highs and lows that come with every trading session.

At the campaign’s core is a high-production, visually striking concept that brings to life what trading really feels like—from the anticipation before entering a position to the thrill of making the right call. It’s a fresh, high-impact take on what drives traders and what keeps them coming back.

Alfonso Cardalda, Exness Chief Marketing Officer, commented, “Traders don’t just react to the markets, they live them. We understand that, for them, trading is more than a profession; it’s a calling. This campaign is built to speak directly to traders’ hearts and minds.  It captures the adrenaline, drive, and mindset that define real traders while reinforcing what sets us apart: reliable performance, superior products, and a deep understanding of the trader’s world. At Exness, we know exactly what traders feel, think, and need, and with this campaign, we are connecting with our traders on a deeper level. That’s why we continue to be the broker of choice for over a million active traders worldwide. “

Driven by the insight that every trader sees themselves as part of a special breed— ambitious, bold, independent—the campaign reinforces Exness’ role as the broker for those who are Born to Trade. It highlights two foundational pillars of the brand:

  • Traders as heroes: Portraying traders as heroes in an aspirational light.
  • Product as an enabler: Showcasing Exness’ unmatched technology and market-leading features such as seamless withdrawals, tight and stable spreads*, and fast execution.

From sharp visuals to immersive storytelling, everything is designed to connect with traders on a deeper level. It’s a cinematic tribute to every trader’s journey–from moments of doubt to decisive actions.

With a global rollout across various channels and platforms, the campaign cements Exness’ position as the trusted broker that truly understands traders and gives them the edge they seek.

Founded in 2008, Exness is a global multi-asset broker on a mission to reshape the online trading industry. Since its inception, the company has focused on creating the ultimate trading experience through large-scale investment in technology and infrastructure. Exness’ fresh approach resonates with traders worldwide, growing the company into one of the most prominent retail brokers in the sector.

* “Best spreads” means the tightest and most stable spreads. “Most stable” refers to the lowest maximum spreads, and “tightest” refers to the tightest average spreads – offered on Exness Pro accounts – for certain instruments. These are compared to spreads across commission-free accounts of other top brokers over the specified period.

Contact:  
Eleonora Oikonomidou
eleonora.oikonomidou@exness.com
+35725030959

Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBpamhk-3bI

Exness launches Born to Trade 2
Exness launches Born to Trade 2

 

 

 

Arts Council Korea to Host ARKO Global Week Presenting A Global Vision: Connecting Korean Arts with the World

  • ARKO Global Week Spotlights Major International Events, Including the 10th World Summit on Arts and Culture and APE CAMP (May 24–30)
  • ARKO Announces Global Vision and Strategic Initiatives to Advance Artistic Creation and Cultural Exchange
  • Celebrating 30 Years of the Korean Pavilion at the Venice Biennale with a New Architecture Exhibition and Expanded Global Programming

SEOUL, South Korea, May 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Arts Council Korea (ARKO) is hosting “ARKO Global Week,” from May 24 until May 30, 2025, featuring a series of major international programs and events that reinforce Korea’s role as a global cultural hub.

The week includes the 10th World Summit on Arts and Culture, which brings together global leaders from the arts and culture sectors, and APE CAMP, a collaborative platform fostering innovation between emerging artists and technology developers worldwide.

Through these efforts, ARKO seeks to position Korea as a key player in international cultural exchange and to open a new chapter in its global engagement strategy.

ARKO Announces Global Vision and New International Strategies

At a press briefing on May 14 at the ARKO Art Center in Daehak-ro, Seoul, Chairman Byoung Gug Choung unveiled ARKO’s new global vision, themed “Connecting Korean Arts with the World.”

He also outlined a suite of strategic initiatives aimed at deepening international collaboration and creative development, including:

  • Co-hosting the 10th World Summit on Arts and Culture
  • Organizing the 4th APE CAMP
  • Participating in the 19th International Architecture Exhibition at the 2025 Venice Biennale
  • Launching the ARKO Creative Studio
  • Strengthening partnerships with major global arts and culture institutions

10th World Summit on Arts and Culture to Convene in Daehak-ro

The 10th World Summit on Arts and Culture, co-hosted by ARKO and the International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies (IFACCA), will be held May 27–30 in Daehak-ro.

The event is expected to bring together over 400 professionals from more than 80 countries, including 105 speakers representing 62 nations, comprising policymakers, cultural leaders, scholars, artists, and government officials.

Under the theme “Charting the Future of Arts and Culture,” the summit will tackle global challenges such as AI and digital transformation, climate change, and community resilience, focusing on how the arts can respond to and shape these evolving realities.

APE CAMP: A Global Crossroads for Artists and Tech Innovators

Launched in 2022, APE CAMP is now in its fourth year as APE CAMP is ARKO’s signature international platform for interdisciplinary collaboration. This year’s edition attracted over 200 applicants from 67 countries, demonstrating growing global interest.

The program includes:

  • An International Conference on May 24 at the ARKO Arts Theater
  • The APE CAMP Lab from May 25–27 at COEX Magok in western Seoul

The 2025 edition will gather 100 participants from 22 countries, mentored by leading institutions including ZKM (Germany) and SAT (Canada). Participants will engage in hands-on creative experiments that blend artistic vision with emerging technologies.

Commemorating 30 Years of the Korean Pavilion at the Venice Biennale

To mark the 30th anniversary of the Korean Pavilion at the Venice Biennale, ARKO is presenting the architecture exhibition “Little Toad, Little Toad: Unbuilding Pavilion”, on view from May 10 to November 23 at the Giardini in Venice.

The exhibition reflects on the past, present, and future of the Korean Pavilion, with a particular focus on sustainability in the architecture of national pavilions.

On May 9, ARKO hosted a dedicated architecture forum, “Vision and Legacy: 30 Years of the Korean Pavilion,” featuring key figures such as Franco Mancuso, co-architect of the Korean Pavilion, and Cho Min-suk, commissioner of the 2014 Golden Lion-winning exhibition.

Launch of ARKO Art Studio and Expansion of International Programs

ARKO recently opened the ARKO Art Studio in Pyeongchang-dong, Seoul – a new creative base for visual artists. The facility includes five private studios, an outdoor performance stage, and an academic hall. It will host 10 resident artists, with programming that includes cultural tours, mentorship, seminars, open studios, art fair participation, and exhibitions.

In addition, ARKO is expanding global partnerships to support Korean artists abroad. Current collaborators include:

  • Edinburgh Momentum (UK)
  • International Writing Program (IWP) – the University of Iowa (USA)
  • Rijksakademie (Netherlands)

In 2025, ARKO is running residency programs with 23 partner organizations across five global regions and has launched new collaborations with institutions such as New Museum’s NEW INC (USA), transmediale (Germany), and Ain Shams University (Egypt).

New initiatives to support the international visibility of Korean arts include:

  • Participation in the Festival International Cervantino (Mexico), one of the world’s largest performing arts festivals
  • Support for Korean artists exhibiting at the Venice Biennale

Additionally, ARKO is also enhancing inbound cultural exchange through a new Inbound Cooperation Program themed around “Regional Decline,” encouraging dialogue and experimental artistic responses to this urgent issue.

Chairman Choung concluded, “ARKO will continue to take bold steps to foster a sustainable ecosystem for Korean arts. By transcending borders and partnering with global institutions, we aim to make Korean arts more accessible, more connected, and more inspiring to the world.”

Press materials and images are available for download via the Arts Council Korea Google Drive.
[ARKO] 2025_Global Week presskit – Google Drive

Chairman Byoung Gug Choung of the Arts Council Korea unveiled ARKO’s new global vision at a press briefing on May 14 in Seoul. (Photo Credit: ARKO)
Chairman Byoung Gug Choung of the Arts Council Korea unveiled ARKO’s new global vision at a press briefing on May 14 in Seoul. (Photo Credit: ARKO)

 

XCMG Opens 7th XCMG International Customer Festival, Strengthening Collaboration with Global Partners

XUZHOU, China, May 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — XCMG Machinery (“XCMG”, SHE: 000425) has successfully hosted the 7th XCMG International Customer Festival (the “Festival”) from May 20 to 23 in Xuzhou, China. More than 2,000 customers from over 80 countries and regions as well as 60 journalists from both home and abroad gathered in Xuzhou, China, to celebrate and witness the largest edition of the Festival to date.

XCMG Opens 7th XCMG International Customer Festival, Strengthening Collaboration with Global Partners
XCMG Opens 7th XCMG International Customer Festival, Strengthening Collaboration with Global Partners

Yang Dongsheng, chairman of XCMG Group and XCMG Machinery, expressed his gratitude and respect to the partners from all over the world. “As the old saying goes, ‘Nothing, not even mountains and seas, can separate people with common goals and ideals.’ Every breakthrough and leap forward in XCMG’s globalization journey is full of the trust and entrustment of our global customers; it’s the cohesion of everyone’s wisdom and contribution and a chapter of the times we grow together.”

XCMG lined up 16 top-selling cranes, which heralded the beginning of a new journey with global partners. 2,500 drones drew the “SOLID TO SUCCEED” manifesto with the night sky as canvas, mapping the blueprint for building a greener future for all during its opening ceremony.

XCMG also showcased groundbreaking products and green technologies, including the pure electric unmanned excavator XE215E and electric loader XC968-EV, both utilize XCMG’s self-developed algorithms and AI models and are equipped with multi-line LIDAR, cameras and deep learning computing units that are extensively configured in the intelligent equipment to achieve truck positioning, path planning and accurate loading.

At the opening ceremony, Yang Dongsheng presented six golden keys to deliver a batch of high-end hoisting machinery, intelligent and digital mining and road equipment.

The interactive experience zone with 12 programs of the Festival was set up close to the actual working conditions of customer experience projects, including excavating machinery, road machinery, shoveling machinery, truck-mounted cranes, fire trucks and the city’s operating platforms.

Rooted in more than 190 countries and regions, XCMG, as a leading construction machinery brand, has made remarkable achievements in product technology, intelligent manufacturing, brand building, international market development and more.

Against the backdrop of profound changes in the current global economic landscape and accelerated restructuring of the industrial chain and supply chain, XCMG is actively responding to the challenges and grasping opportunities, showing strong resilience and vitality in development.

Li Qi, vice president of China Machinery Industry Federation, noted in his speech that XCMG has set a benchmark for the transformation and upgrading of the construction machinery industry.

“We hope that XCMG will continue to play a leading role in the industry, strengthen in-depth cooperation with global partners, and make greater contributions to the development of the global construction machinery industry,” said Li Qi.

From the Simandou iron mine in Guinea to the Future City in Saudi Arabia, from the wind farms in Europe to mines in Indonesia, XCMG is committed to responding accurately to the market demand, and each solution originates from the in-depth insight into the local regulations, standards and operating habits, constantly breaking through the boundaries of the construction machinery to build a future of shared success.

“Life of Pi” Drama Debuts in Hong Kong in June

From the novel and film, stepping into the West Kowloon Cultural District’s Xiqu Centre, combining exquisite puppetry and magical theater, sweeping multiple international theater awards.

HONG KONG, May 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ –The original London West End production of *Life of Pi*, which has garnered five Laurence Olivier Awards and three Tony Awards, will be presented in Hong Kong for the first time by China Foreign Cultural Affairs Group Ltd. The performances will take place at the Grand Theatre of the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) from June 26 to 29. Audiences can now purchase tickets for this Hong Kong engagement through various platforms, with prices starting at a limited $288, allowing them to experience this ‘theatre miracle’ that transcends the pages of the book and the screen!

Details of “Life of Pi” Drama

“Life of Pi” – The Original London West End Drama
Date: 26 June 2025 (Thursday) to 29 June 2025 (Sunday)
Afternoon Session: 2:30pm (28 & 29 June)
Evening Time Scene: 7:30pm (26, 27, 28 & 29 June)
Venue: Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre, WKCD (88 Austin Road West, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon)
Tickets: $1188, $988, $888, $688, $588, $288
Concessionary prices for full-time students, senior citizens aged 60 or above (A/$832, B/$692, C/$622, D/$482) Purchase of regular-price tickets is subject to the presentation of a valid identity document upon admission.

Tickets of the original London West End production of “Life of Pi” Drama are currently available for purchase through the official website of the Hong Kong West Kowloon Cultural District Theatre Centre, Cityline, Art-mate, Pop-ticket, Damai and Gewara.

Official Ticketing Website: www.westk.hk/tc/events/english-play-life-pi 

Ang Lee’s Oscar-winning film of the same name has received numerous international awards.

The original philosophical fable, Life of PI, has sold over 15 million copies worldwide since its release in 2001 and won the Booker Prize in 2002. The 2012 film adaptation, directed by Ang Lee, garnered four Oscars. In 2019, this legendary classic was brought to life in a theatrical production by the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, UK. This reinterpretation introduced a new dimension to the art of theatre, transitioning from paperback and cinema to the prestigious West End theatres in London. The production achieved unparalleled success, winning five Olivier Awards and three Tony Awards for Best New Play, Best Choreography, and Best Lighting Design. Additionally, it received five British Drama Awards and the WhatsOnStage Awards for Best New Play, solidifying its status as the most successful play of its kind in London. It has earned recognition as the undisputed ‘dark horse’ of the theatre scene.

A widely acclaimed masterpiece, it has received five-star reviews from major media outlets in both the UK and the US.

The New York Times described it as a “It’s a wonder! life of pi delivers magic. the roaring you hear at the show’s end is the sound of a standing ovation.”, The Times praised, “The puppetry, from Finn Caldwell and Nick Barnes, is breathtaking”. There were numerous positive comments on social media, with one user declaring it “the ultimate theatre experience that makes your brain dizzy, your heart beat wildly, and your soul tremble.” This is undoubtedly proof that *The Fantastic Adventures of Young Pi* is not only a masterpiece of art but also a journey that connects human emotions.

Stage Magic, Puppetry, and an Unmatched Immersive Experience

One of the most remarkable aspects of the play “Life of PI” is the innovative puppetry that brings various animal characters to life, including the Bengal tiger Richard Parker, hyenas, orangutans, and zebras. Under the skilled control of three puppeteers, every breath and movement of the puppets is infused with wildness and vitality. The *Guardian* newspaper in the UK praised the performance, and the audience echoed this sentiment, stating,  three puppeteers made the tiger so wild and spiritual that I even forgot it was a puppet! puppeteers to become the first to win an Olivier Award, marking a significant milestone in the history of theatre.

Through a multi-layered dynamic setup and high-precision projection technology, the vastness of the ocean is realistically recreated on stage. Light and shadow simulate the movement of the sea, the dinghy bobbing in the enormous waves, the movement of fish, and the galaxy in the night sky. This creates a stunning audiovisual experience that immerses the audience, making them feel as though they are struggling alongside the protagonist, Pi, in the stormy Pacific Ocean and sharing in his fantastical journey.

A Stage Miracle That Transcends Both Page and Screen

The story of Pi, a young Indian boy who loses his family in a shipwreck and shares a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger named Richard Parker, along with other animals, exemplifies the essence of the original narrative. In this confined space, Pi faces a race against time to survive, weaving a tale that blends fantasy with reality. Through the ingenious use of a dual narrative—rich with fantastical animal fables while confronting the harsh and brutal truths of human nature—the film immerses the audience in Pi’s inner world. It poignantly portrays his struggle and growth in a desperate situation, prompting viewers to gain a deeper understanding of self-identity and the meaning of survival. Additionally, it encourages the audience to reflect on these profound themes.

Art Feast Brings Light to the Cultural Landscape of the Greater Bay Area

The Hong Kong leg of ‘The Fantastic Drift of Young Pi’ is produced by China External Culture Group Limited and operated by Beijing One World Culture Communications Co., Ltd. , a content company of China Performing Arts Theatre Line, which is a subsidiary of China Performing Arts Theatre Line. The Hong Kong leg of ‘The Fantastic Drift of Young Pi’, which has been touring the world since 2023, spreads all over North America, and then embarks on its journey to Asia, with Hong Kong as one of the stops, not only creating a major event for the Hong Kong art scene, but also providing an opportunity for the Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau Bay Area to celebrate the cultural landscape. It has not only created a major event in Hong Kong’s art scene, but also injected new vigour into the art market of the Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao Greater Bay Area.

Whether you are touched by the philosophical ideas of the novel, shocked by the visual impact of the film, or are encountering the story for the first time, you should come to the WKCD Centre from 26 to 29 June to face life’s choices together with ‘Pi’ through this drama, and experience a magical journey intertwined with emotions and philosophical ideas.

About Beijing One World Culture Communications Co., Ltd.

Beijing One World Culture Communications Co., Ltd. is the content division of the China Performing Arts Theatre Line, operating under China Foreign Culture Group Co., Ltd. The company is primarily responsible for the introduction, production, operation, and marketing of theatrical content. It is also one of the earliest organizations in the country to engage in the commercialization of arts and cultural performances.

Since 2008, the company has been fully committed to the development of China’s musical theatre industry. It has signed a series of world-renowned productions, including classic musicals adapted into Chinese. The company has successfully produced and promoted Chinese versions of these musicals, touring dozens of cities across the country. From 2015 onwards, the company introduced and operated original Broadway versions of world-class musicals, such as Phantom of the Opera, the Tony Award-winning epic musical, and participated in the Chinese productions of other notable musical theatre projects.

Download images:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EAmzPZj4nmhSzDtEMLtPtr0dj3_GBJmE?usp=drive_link 

Media enquiry: Yannis Wong 5593 6199

Official Ticketing Website: www.westk.hk/tc/events/english-play-life-pi

Cutting-Edge Pyrolysis Technology | Niutech’s Continuous Intelligent Equipment Achieves the “Ultimate Disposal” of Scrap Tires!

  • Niutech’s new generation intelligent continuous tire pyrolysis production line achieves three major breakthroughs: “high-efficiency conversion, smart control, and low-carbon environmental protection.”
  • The production line has received China’s highest environmental technology award; the tire pyrolysis project has passed ISCC international certification and complies with the EU Renewable Energy Directive (RED II).

JINAN, China, May 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Approximately 1.5 billion waste tires are generated worldwide each year, with over 50 million annually in the UK alone. More than half of these are transferred to developing countries through “gray” trade. This transnational movement of “black pollution” exposes the global lack of effective solutions for the comprehensive utilization of tires. In the face of the global challenge of safe and environmentally friendly disposal of scrap tires, Niutech, an international leader in continuous pyrolysis, with over 30 years of focus on cutting-edge pyrolysis technology, has independently developed a “large-scale industrial continuous intelligent scrap tire pyrolysis production line” with complete proprietary intellectual property rights. Leveraging a powerful AI-controlled system, it can continuously convert scrap tires into high-value-added renewable energy products at capacities ranging from ten thousand to one million tons. These can then be further processed into chemical raw materials for the production of new products, creating a perfect circular loop from waste to new products. Currently, this technology has been implemented in dozens of countries and regions, including Germany, South Korea, Brazil, and China, successfully completing 10000-ton-scale industrial projects, which represent significant milestones toward solving global tire pollution, high-value resource utilization, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable development.

On-site of Some Global Scrap Tire Pyrolysis Disposal Projects
On-site of Some Global Scrap Tire Pyrolysis Disposal Projects

Niutech’s production line was specifically developed for the global high-end circular economy market. It consists of “intelligent feeding system, continuous pyrolysis system, non-condensable gas scrubbing system, oil separating and cooling system, circulating water cooling system, flue gas purification system, intelligent discharge system, and fully automated control system.” Integrating nearly 10,000 proprietary technical parameters, the pyrolysis process under AI control achieves optimal operation. The system can operate stably for several months at full capacity, from ten thousand to one million tons, with a pyrolysis rate exceeding 99.5%, and a 30% increase in efficiency. Additionally, with proprietary heat recovery technology and multi-stage tail gas purification, the entire system reduces energy consumption by 40%. All emissions meet the environmental standards of the EU EEA and US EPA. Currently, the equipment has obtained EU CE Certification, German TUV Certification, and ATEX Certification. Related projects have passed ISCC EU/PLUS international sustainability and carbon certification, and products meet the requirements of the EU Renewable Energy Directive (RED II). Through multiple demonstration projects with over ten years of stable operation, Niutech’s intelligent tire pyrolysis solutions are highly praised for their technological maturity, safety and environmental protection, equipment reliability, economic viability, and high-value product output. They are regarded as the “ultimate solution” to global tire pollution.

More Information:
Niutech Website: www.niutechenergy.com
Niutech Business Email: sales@niutech.com
Niutech Youtube: www.youtube.com/@niutechpyrolysis