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Global Times: Up Close: President Xi joins national political advisors in education discussion

BEIJING, March 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visited national political advisors from the China Democratic League, the China Association for Promoting Democracy, and the sector of education, who are currently attending the third session of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) in Beijing on Thursday. Xi attended their joint group meeting, and heard their comments and suggestions.

‘Education must not abandon fundamentals’

Artificial intelligence (AI) is empowering education. New tracks and opportunities have emerged, accompanied by new challenges and concerns.

Xu Kun, a member of the 14th National Committee of the CPPCC from Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, shared his insights from practice. “AI has become a key variable in accelerating the transformation from a large educational country to a strong educational country,” Xu said.

Xi showed keen interest in this topic: “With the digitalization of education, some issues need to be clarified.”

On one hand, with the rise of the Internet of Intelligence and AI, the tools and methods of education will change, as will the development of students’ capacities, requiring reforms that keep pace with the times. On the other hand, the enlightenment of students’ minds, the nurturing of their hearts and the development of basic cognitive and problem-solving skills must not be neglected. The fundamentals must still be maintained, Xi said.

Comparing with the past, he gave an example: “In the past, when shopping at a store, some people had to count change one by one at a time, which often indicated a lack of basic mathematical skills. After the advent of calculators, the demands on these basic skills shifted compared with the days of using an abacus. Even so, education must not abandon the fundamentals.”

As the saying goes, “To ensure a good outcome, one must establish a solid foundation; to achieve a good future, one must be meticulous from the start.” In today’s surging wave of digitalization, what are the “fundamentals” that education must not abandon?

The inheritance of the “red gene,” for instance.

Ma Jinglin, a member of the 14th National Committee of the CPPCC from Beijing No. 4 High School, spoke on the theme of cultural inheritance and cultural confidence. “Schools plant a seed in a person’s heart. Primary schools, middle schools and even kindergartens play a crucial role in a person’s life. We must start from children.” “We should effectively integrate the ‘small classroom’ of ideological and political education with the ‘big classroom’ of society,” Xi said.

This instruction reflects a steadfast resolve amid the changes of the times.

“Education must hold firm, cultivating patriotism from a young age,” said Xi earnestly. “Instilling ideals and firm beliefs from childhood ensures that, as they grow, the cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics will have reliable successors.”

Another example is reading.

Cultural prosperity relies on the spiritual nourishment brought by reading. “Fragmented reading” is also one of the “worries” that accompany digitalization.

In the digital age, with society moving at a fast pace, it’s not easy to sit down quietly and patiently to read a book. From the families with a culture of reading in the past to today’s advocacy for building a culture of reading on campuses and in society, the president expressed his deep hope: “A culture of reading is an atmosphere.”

Zheng Jiajian, another member of the 14th National Committee of the CPPCC from Fujian Normal University in East China’s Fujian Province, proposed “building a diverse and multidimensional reading ecosystem for children and adolescents.” “Digital reading should be combined with traditional reading to preserve our core and cultivation,” Xi affirmed.

This instruction highlights a strategy of harnessing technology for our benefit.

With an internet cable, a screen and a platform, quality educational resources transcend mountains and seas. In recent years, education has taken flight on digital wings, presenting a myriad of achievements. Implementing the national strategy for digital education has been incorporated into the Master Plan on Building China into a Leading Country in Education (2024-35). China’s ranking in the global digital education development index has risen to ninth place.

“To implement the national strategy for digital education and build a learning society, we must promote the emergence of talent at all levels and in all fields.” During his visit to the group, Xi engaged in in-depth exchanges with everyone on this topic.

In the face of opportunities brought by digital education, maintaining resolve while taking proactive steps aims to foster an atmosphere with the culture of books, and a wealth of talent, all for the future of the Chinese nation.

‘Education must plan ahead and act swiftly’

Education is a cornerstone of the country and the Party.

“Every family pays attention to education, and there are many hot topics in this area, indicating a strong educational atmosphere. It also reflects that our education still falls short of the people’s expectations in some respects.” Xi’s concerns unfolded from the issue of aligning talent cultivation with practical needs.

In the exchange of questions and answers, a metaphor stood out: “Turning a corner.”

After the speech by Zhang Yunkai, a member of the 14th National Committee of the CPPCC from the Traffic Vocational-Technical School of Hebei Province in North China, Xi inquired in detail about student employment rates and the recent progress of “order-based” classes in school-enterprise cooperation, discussing the changing dynamics of talent supply and demand, and the positioning of vocational schools.

“Talent follows a shifting supply-demand relationship, and education must plan ahead and act swiftly.” Xi’s words carried a sense of urgency: “This isn’t something that can be reoriented with a few words. It requires one or two ‘five-year plans’ to align properly. Many factors need to be considered in the process. If we don’t plan now, it’ll be too late when the time comes.”

“Vocational schools must adapt to real supply and demand needs, which involve structural adjustments in education. Structural adjustment is a systemic process, a vector change influenced by multiple factors. Education is both a matter of utmost importance and an extremely complex issue. It requires persistent effort over time, yet it is also an urgent priority.”

In the conversation, a comparison provided a sharp contrast: “Good schools are defined by great teachers, not just grand buildings.”

Cai Guangjie, a member of the 14th National Committee of the CPPCC and deputy director of the Department of Education of Southwest China’s Sichuan Province, noted that in recent years, as population distribution has shifted toward cities and the school-age population decreases in stages, new challenges have emerged, such as the coexistence of a surplus and shortage of school places and an imbalanced teacher workforce structure.

We must align with the needs of modernization, adapt to demographic changes, coordinate basic education, higher education, and vocational education, and balance government and societal investments to establish a more rational and efficient mechanism for allocating educational resources, Xi said.

How can there be a balance between quantity and quality? How can timing and effectiveness be coordinated in an orderly manner? “Some schools are built to be ‘grand and imposing,’ but good schools are defined by great teachers, not just grand buildings. We must focus on improving quality, pursuing connotative development, and addressing existing problems.”

Problems are the voice of the times. Educational challenges must be viewed from both sides, dialectically, and with a long-term perspective. “These are new issues brought by changes in progress. The process of solving problems is also the process of advancing development.”

“Our own educational journey has undergone earth-shaking changes!” Xi’s words have painted a grand picture of New China’s educational development history, unfolding like a scroll.

In times of poverty and scarcity, literacy classes were held to eradicate illiteracy. “Back then, it was a question of whether people could eat enough. The entire Chinese population tightened their belts, and education funding was stretched thin,” Xi recalled.

At the dawn of reform and opening-up, from collective fundraising for schools to the “Hope Project,” how many children’s dreams were ignited. “Back then, I helped raise funds to build a primary school in Liangjiahe village in Northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, and I was quite pleased. Later, why did it disappear? It was a good thing – schools were centralized in townships to improve education quality. That was another structural adjustment in education,” Xi said.

When he was a young man, Xi spent seven years in Liangjiahe, a poor village at the time in Shaanxi. After witnessing the hardship of people’s lives in the barren mountains, Xi resolved to become a public servant and do some good for the people.

Into the new century and the new era, schools rebuilt in disaster areas, deep in the mountains, and in ethnic regions… have collectively borne witness to the thriving progress of Chinese education.

Times have changed, and the world has transformed. Today, China has built the world’s largest education system, with its overall level of educational modernization entering the upper-middle ranks globally. The once-illiterate country has become an education powerhouse, now advancing toward a leading country in education, while the populous country has grown into a human resources giant.

The report to the 20th CPC National Congress dedicated a chapter to education, science and talent, sounding the clarion call to accelerate the building of a country with powerful education. Each journey brings new landscapes, where opportunities and challenges coexist. Deepening comprehensive education reform seeks to adapt to the changes of the times, anchoring the new journey of advancing the socialism with Chinese characteristics.

Xi’s remarks resounded through the venue. “In the new era and on the new journey, we must deeply grasp the demands of Chinese modernization on education, science, and talent, strengthen education’s supporting role in science and talent development, and further create a vibrant landscape where talents emerge in abundance, fully realize their potential, and put their abilities to optimal use.”

https://www.globaltimes.cn//page/202503/1329784.shtml

 

Fundamental Analysis in Trading: How Economic Indicators Shape Market Decisions – Insights from Octa Broker


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 March 2025 – In 2025, global markets are navigating a phase of economic uncertainty as potential inflationary pressures induced by trade tariffs, shifting central bank policy, and geopolitical risk shape trading conditions. Traders who integrate fundamental analysis into their strategies can navigate these uncertainties more effectively, positioning themselves ahead of major market movements. Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, explains how traders can leverage fundamental analysis to anticipate market shifts and capitalise on economic developments.

Octa

Basics of Fundamental Analysis
Fundamental analysis is a method of analysing how political and macroeconomic factors can affect the future price of an asset. Traders normally evaluate geopolitical events, economic releases, and industry trends. Both macroeconomic and microeconomic statistics, including GDP, employment data, and company profits, are employed in the analysis. For example, the German economic slowdown of 2024, driven by mounting energy prices and decreasing industrial output, led to a reduced 2025 growth forecast of just 0.3%, and this affected German equities and investor sentiment.

Government policies and central bank actions have a strong impact on market sentiment. For instance, in 2025, fresh U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports fuelled stagflation concerns, leading to a rise in gold prices while weakening risk-sensitive currencies.

‘Another recent example of how policies impact markets is when, in February 2025, President Trump put a 25% tariff on imports of steel and aluminum starting from March 12. The policy was to protect domestic industry but created a threat of rising inflation and slowing economy’, shares Kar Yong Ang. ‘The market response was quick. By the end of February, CME Midwest Domestic hot-rolled coil steel costs has increased by more than 30% since Mr. Trump entered his office. American business activity dropped considerably, with the S&P Global Flash U.S. Composite PMI Output Index dropping to 50.4 in February from 52.7 in January, its lowest level since 17 months ago. The fall was attributed to increasing tariffs and federal government expenditure reductions that made financial conditions tighten across industries’.

How Fundamental Analysis Differs from Technical Analysis
While technical analysis focuses on price charts and trends, fundamental analysis considers broader economic and corporate financial factors to predict an asset’s value. Blending both methods enhances decision-making. Those who rely only on technical analysis risk ignoring some external factors that may drive price increases or drops, regardless of indicator-based insights. What is more, conducting both technical and fundamental analyses allows you to identify more facts to support your trading assumption or spot emerging facts that contradict your trading hypothesis. This reduces the risk of implementing speedy, chaotic decisions.

Client-focused brokers tend to include fundamental and technical analysis capabilities in their trading platforms’ toolkits. For example, Octa broker’s proprietary platform, OctaTrader, features Space, a feed of expert-curated insights embedded into the app. Space offers relevant and timely trading ideas anchored in fundamental and technical analysis and allows traders to copy these ideas to their charts in a couple of clicks, enhancing decision-making and driving more informed, precision-based trading.

Key Economic Indicators Every Trader Should Track

  • Gross Domestic Product (GDP). A key measure of economic strength, GDP growth typically boosts investor confidence, leading to stock market gains and increased corporate investment. Conversely, a contracting GDP signals economic distress, often triggering market sell-offs, weaker consumer spending, and potential central bank interventions to stimulate growth. In 2024, the U.S. GDP grew by 2.8%, supporting stock market confidence.
  • Inflation Rates. Inflation is a key indicator which erodes purchasing power of a consumer and shapes monetary policy. Almost all central banks in the world set inflation targets, typically around 2%. Stable inflation is essential for long-term economic growth. To meet the target, central banks adjust their monetary policies. If inflation rises too quickly, the monetary policy is tightened: interest rates are raised to slow down spending and borrowing. Conversely, deflation often leads to reduced interest rates or stimulus packages.
  • Interest Rates. While central bank decisions on interest rates influence economic growth and exchange rates, investors’ expectations of the future rate changes have the greatest impact on financial markets. Traders watch closely for signals because differences in rate expectations between large economies are a key driver of currency value shifts.
  • Unemployment and Labour Market Data. Labour market health influences consumer spending and economic stability. Essentially, all major central banks focus on both inflation and employment. Strong labour markets are typically supportive of economic growth and can lead to monetary policy tightening if rising wage pressures raise inflation. The most watched indicator is U.S. Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP), which traditionally has the biggest immediate impact on markets. A higher-than-expected NFP can harden the dollar and improve rate hike expectations, while a weak report might lead to dovish central bank warnings and low bond yields.
  • Trade Balance and Current Account. A balance of trade—a country’s exports over its imports—has a direct impact on the currency value. When there is a trade surplus (exports outpacing imports), the country’s currency strengthens: foreign customers have to acquire the domestic currency to settle payments for products and services, pushing demand. A trade deficit (imports exceeding exports), on the other hand, weakens the domestic currency since more money is exported to buy foreign goods, increasing the supply of the local currency in foreign markets.

How Traders Use Economic Calendars
Economic calendars are essential resources for traders since they provide scheduled releases of important economic data, central bank statements, and geopolitical events.

Traders who follow the events can anticipate potential market fluctuation and prepare a potentially profitable trade or apply risk management. For example, set or adjust stop-loss, as well as close all the positions to hold out potential volatility. Itэs important to protect your funds, even if you strongly anticipate specific decisions on interest rate, inflation, and so on. From time to time, the market faces monetary policy surprises when a central bank takes an unexpected decision, urging market volatility: for example, ECB’s negative interest rates in 2014, Fed’s emergency rate cuts in 2020, or Bank of Canada’s rate hike pause in 2023.

Risk Management in Fundamental Analysis
Volatility is a natural сhallenge for any trader, especially during major economic events. Central bank decisions, inflation levels, and political tensions have a tendency to trigger aggressive price movements, which render risk management a core component of any strategy. Professional traders employ hedging instruments and prudent position sizing to contain potential losses in order to control these movements.

Geopolitical events are a great example of the impact of external forces on trading. The Russia-Ukraine war, for instance, disrupted energy supplies and increased oil prices, rewarding the traders who had anticipated these shortages in supply. Those who were closely monitoring geopolitical events and taking position adjustments were able to capitalise on such price fluctuations, validating the inclusion of geopolitical analysis in trading models. President elections are another event to watch. For instance, traders who followed the 2024 US elections could have prepared for market volatility by anticipating Trump’s tariffs and his more friendly stance on the crypto industry.

By tracking key economic indicators such as GDP growth, inflation, and interest rates, traders can make long-term forecasts and adjust their positions to take advantage. Coupling fundamental knowledge with technical analysis allows to make trading strategies stronger, enhancing the decision-making process. This approach also improves risk management as traders analyse more factors and can better identify potential price movements.

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Disclaimer: Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision.

Hashtag: #Octa

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

Octa

is an international CFD broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools.

The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities.

In Southeast Asia, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

China’s regional powerhouses chart distinctive paths in national modernization drive

BEIJING, March 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A report by People’s Daily :

Chinese President Xi Jinping urged east China’s Jiangsu province, an economic powerhouse, to play a major role in the country’s overall development.

Xi made the remarks when he taking part in a deliberation with his fellow lawmakers from Jiangsu during the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress, China’s national legislature.

He also highlighted the province’s responsibility to take the lead and achieve even greater success. His remarks provide significant guidance as China seeks to secure a decisive victory in the final year of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) and continues to open up new horizons in reform and development.

Over the past year, China has accomplished the main goals and tasks for economic and social development. Stable performance was consolidated and sustained, and strong and solid progress was achieved. The country’s economically developed provinces have played a pivotal role in anchoring this progress.

Amid a multitude of uncertainties and challenges, China still faces the challenging tasks of advancing reform and development while maintaining stability. Last year’s annual Central Economic Work Conference emphasized the need to support major economically developed provinces to play major roles, and encourage other regions to leverage their local conditions and advantages.

By calibrating each province’s comparative advantages within the broader Chinese national development framework, China is bound to fulfill the goals and tasks in the 14th Five-Year Plan with high quality and lay a solid foundation for a good start to the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030).

For instance, Guangdong, south China’s economic powerhouse, has played a pioneering and exemplary role in further deepening reform and opening up comprehensively. In 2024, the province’s foreign trade exceeded 9 trillion yuan ($1.24 trillion), an increase of 9.8 percent year on year, contributing to nearly 40 percent of China’s overall trade growth.

Jiangsu, anchoring itself as a major locality for developing new quality productive forces, has intensified the integration between technological innovation and industrial innovation. In 2024, 711 enterprises that use specialized and sophisticated technologies to produce novel and unique products were established in the province, the highest provincial tally in China.

Shandong strives to become an important economic growth pole in north China. Capitalizing on its maritime assets, it is creating a highland for the development of a modern marine economy, projecting its marine GDP to hit 1.8 trillion yuan in 2024.

Chinese economic powerhouses are cradles for fostering new business forms, new growth drivers, and new quality productive forces. They are also major engines for China’s economic development.

From innovation hubs to revitalized industrial belts, many provinces are carving out their specialized roles in the country’s modernization agenda by amplifying local strengths while aligning with broader national priorities.

For example, Hubei province in central China is accelerating efforts to build a strategic fulcrum for regional growth. Its breakthroughs – including cutting-edge memory chips, hollow-core fiber optics, and septal myectomy – are fueling its integration into China’s national innovation chain.

Liaoning province in northeast China is shoring up agricultural resilience while pushing industrial upgrades and service-sector expansion. As it enters the final year of its three-year action plan for comprehensive revitalization, it targets GDP growth above five percent.

Shaanxi, as the ancient Silk Road’s eastern gateway, is channeling its geographic legacy into modern logistics ambitions. The province is advancing a ChinaEurope freight train economic corridor designed to fuse transportation networks with cross-border trade and financial services, cementing its role in China’s unified national market.

This mosaic of localized strategies reflects a deliberate calculus: by leveraging comparative advantages – from technological prowess to geographic heritage – provinces are competing for strategic niches while avoiding homogenized development. The approach not only bolsters near-term goals like the 14th Five-Year Plan, but also lays groundwork for sustained, resilient growth.

China is advancing a series of interconnected regional strategies – including the coordinated regional development strategy, major regional strategies, the functional zoning strategy, and the new urbanization strategy – to foster localized economic modernization. Every province now falls under at least one of these national development strategies, ready to channel provincial strengths into a cohesive modernization drive.

These policies create favorable conditions, provide opportunities, and open up new space for different regions to explore high-quality development paths suited to their specific conditions.

 

Ministry of Technology and Science of Zambia and Huawei Jointly Launch the Global Smart Village Showcase, Exploring New Digital Transformation Modes for Villages

BARCELONA, Spain, March 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — During MWC Barcelona 2025, the Ministry of Technology and Science of Zambia joined hands with Huawei in launching the global showcase of Zambia’s smart village at the government industry forum titled Secured, Sovereign & Synergized Network-Cloud Strategy Accelerating National Digitalization. Over 200 industry leaders and technical experts in public services gathered at the event to discuss national transformation paths driven by digital technologies.

Ministry of Science and Technology of Zambia and Huawei Launch the global Smart Village Showcase (Left to right: Victor Guo, President of Sub-Saharan Africa Enterprise Business, Huawei; Li Junfeng (Wind), CEO of Global Public Sector BU, Huawei; Felix C. Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science, Zambia; Brilliant Habeenzu, Permanent Secretary of Technology and Science, Zambia; David Wang, Vice President of Corporate Communications, Huawei )
Ministry of Science and Technology of Zambia and Huawei Launch the global Smart Village Showcase (Left to right: Victor Guo, President of Sub-Saharan Africa Enterprise Business, Huawei; Li Junfeng (Wind), CEO of Global Public Sector BU, Huawei; Felix C. Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science, Zambia; Brilliant Habeenzu, Permanent Secretary of Technology and Science, Zambia; David Wang, Vice President of Corporate Communications, Huawei )

In July 2024, the first smart village site in Zambia was successfully delivered after 30 days of construction. This project has provided electricity and Internet access to the village as well as achieving telemedicine and remote teaching.

Governments worldwide are accelerating the shift toward AI-driven intelligent public service upgrades. During his speech, Li Junfeng, Vice President of Huawei and CEO of Global Public Sector BU, emphasized that the digital transformation of governments is crucial for enhancing national capabilities and improving the well-being of citizens. AI is emerging as a key driver in this digital transformation. The extensive use of the DeepSeek model signifies not just a technological advancement, but also a fundamental shift in production dynamics. Huawei collaborates with international partners to capitalize on opportunities and propel digital government towards a smarter and more sustainable future.

Li Junfeng (Wind), Vice President of Huawei and CEO of Global Public Sector BU, delivering his speech
Li Junfeng (Wind), Vice President of Huawei and CEO of Global Public Sector BU, delivering his speech

At the forum, Koh Hong-Eng, Global Chief Public Services Industry Scientist of Huawei, invited various guests to discuss national digital transformation. Felix C. Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science of Zambia, mentioned that the Smart Villages Project aligns seamlessly with Zambia’s vision 2030. Through smart education, we are not only empowering the next generation with knowledge but also equipping them with the digital skills required to thrive in the fourth industrial revolution. The digital transformation of Zambia is not only about technology — it is about the people, progress, and potential. It is about empowering the communities, bridging inequalities, and creating a future where every Zambian can contribute meaningfully to national development.

Koh Hong-Eng, Global Chief Public Services Industry Scientist interacting with guest speakers (Left to right: Rose Pola Pricemou, Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and the Digital Economy, the Republic of Guinea; Vito Epis-copo, Deputy Mayor of the City Council of Granada, Spain; Dr. Erol Özgüner CTO of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, Türkiye; Felix C. Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science, the Republic of Zambia; Koh Hong-Eng, Chief Scientist of Huawei Global Public Sector BU )
Koh Hong-Eng, Global Chief Public Services Industry Scientist interacting with guest speakers (Left to right: Rose Pola Pricemou, Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and the Digital Economy, the Republic of Guinea; Vito Epis-copo, Deputy Mayor of the City Council of Granada, Spain; Dr. Erol Özgüner CTO of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, Türkiye; Felix C. Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science, the Republic of Zambia; Koh Hong-Eng, Chief Scientist of Huawei Global Public Sector BU )

Huawei adheres to the concept of “Accelerating the Intelligence of Governments and Public Services, Building a Cognitive Society Together”, and is constantly broadening its business scenarios, advancing the extensive use of digital technologies to achieve the vision of “excellent governance, better livelihood, and heightened economy”, and support governments globally in establishing an equitable, efficient, and sustainable digital society.

 

ICECO Unveils New Fridge Freezers at Overland Expo SoCal 2025

BREA, Calif., March 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ICECO, a trusted expert in portable refrigeration solutions, is thrilled to showcase two new fridge freezers in the upcoming Overland Expo SoCal 2025, taking place on March 15-16 at the OC Fair & Event Center. Visitors can explore ICECO’s latest innovations at Booth FF1270, and participate in exclusive weekend events.

ICECO Unveils New Fridge Freezers at Overland Expo SoCal 2025
ICECO Unveils New Fridge Freezers at Overland Expo SoCal 2025

The VL45ProD Dual Zone Fridge Freezer introduces ICECO’s first 45L dual-zone model, featuring a sleek new Gray colorway. Its flexible dual-zone design offers versatile storage options, making it an ideal choice for overlanders seeking a compact yet powerful cooling solution for extended adventures.

Also launching is the APL20/35 Black Aluminum Fridge Freezer, an ultra-lightweight model weighing just 32lbs. Following the success of last year’s APL35 on Indiegogo, this new Matte Black colorway retains all the key features, including a fully aluminum body, dual-zone design, lid stay, and SECOP Nano compressor. The sleek new color offers overlanders an additional option to match their vehicle setups, combining style with ICECO’s signature durability and performance.

Throughout the weekend, ICECO will host giveaways in partnership with Carven Exhaust and R1 Concepts on Saturday, March 15, and Zarges on Sunday, March 16. Attendees can also enjoy Happy Hour with refreshing drinks and snacks, as well as technical Q&A sessions with ICECO experts to learn more about optimizing portable refrigeration for outdoor adventures.

At ICECO, we are passionate about redefining smart outdoor living. We deliver high-quality, portable refrigeration solutions trusted by adventurers worldwide. Our AC/DC-compatible freezers (15L-130L) are durable, versatile, and perfect for overlanding, camping, and off-grid living. Visit icecofreezer.com to learn more!

Event Details:

  • Dates: March 15-16, 2025
  • Hours: Saturday 9 AM5 PM | Sunday 9 AM4 PM
  • Location: OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa, California
  • ICECO Booth: FF1270

Don’t miss your chance to experience ICECO’s latest innovations, participate in exciting giveaways, and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Visit our booth to see why ICECO is the trusted choice for keeping your adventures fresh and hassle-free!

About ICECO
ICECO stands for innovation, quality, and unmatched customer support. With 100+ global technology patents and full in-house R&D and production capabilities, we’re dedicated to crafting reliable portable fridges for every adventure. Trusted by outdoor enthusiasts worldwide, ICECO is your ultimate overland companion.

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Prosecutors’ foreign-related work in focus

BEIJING, March 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from chinadaily.com.cn:

The intensified multilateral and bilateral exchanges between China and other countries and regions have led to an increase in foreign-related legal cases in the country, which has made the importance and urgency of strengthening foreign-related procuratorial work more prominent, said Ying Yong, prosecutor-general of the Supreme People’s Procuratorate.

As high-level opening-up further advances, an increasing number of Chinese enterprises and citizens are venturing into the world, and China’s development interests are expanding overseas at a faster pace. As a result, the country has witnessed an increase in the number, types and areas of foreign-related legal cases, and the demand for legal support from the State, enterprises, and citizens is growing, posing new and higher requirements for strengthening foreign-related procuratorial work, Ying, prosecutor-general of the SPP, said in an exclusive interview with China Daily, on the sidelines of the ongoing two sessions.

Also, foreign-related procuratorial work will attach great importance to combating transnational economic crimes, especially money laundering, illegal foreign exchange transactions, counterfeiting and infringement of intellectual property rights, to foster a world-class and market-oriented business environment supported by a sound legal framework, Ying said.

“We will equally protect the legitimate rights and interests of various domestic and foreign business entities in accordance with the law,” Ying said. “We will uphold equal protection of various types of economic entities involving both domestic and foreign capital in line with the law, and hold those who infringe upon the property rights and legitimate interests of various economic entities equally accountable.”

He said foreign-related procuratorial work is an important duty of procuratorial organs, a vital part of prosecution work, and an important aspect of the country’s foreign-related rule of law. Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2012, the CPC Central Committee has attached great importance to foreign-related rule of law and made a series of major decisions and plans.

On Nov 14, the national conference on foreign-related procuratorial work was held in Shanghai, marking the first meeting convened by the SPP specially dedicated to foreign-related procuratorial work.

In December, the SPP also published a guideline on strengthening foreign-related procuratorial work, based on broad research and investigation and extensive consultations, to effectively enhance the quality and efficiency of related work.

“Foreign-related procuratorial work must effectively shoulder a heavier responsibility in serving high-quality development and opening-up, more forcefully safeguarding the country’s development interests, as well as protecting the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises and citizens,” Ying said.

Meanwhile, foreign-related procuratorial work also aims to lawfully safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of various entities such as Chinese citizens and enterprises overseas.

Prosecutorial authorities will coordinate with relevant departments to help enterprises solve legal issues abroad, and promote the better use of legal tools by overseas enterprises to safeguard their legitimate rights and interests, Ying said.

“By strengthening coordination among different departments and enforcing international judicial cooperation, we will jointly build a strong legal support chain to protect China’s overseas interests, and protect the legitimate rights and interests and production and living order of various entities such as Chinese citizens and enterprises overseas,” he said.

As noted by Ying, procuratorial work will also better serve high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative by strengthening communication, exchanges and information sharing with procuratorial organs in countries taking part in the BRI. Efforts will also be made to continuously implement procuratorial policies that support and guarantee the development of free-trade zones and the Hainan Free Trade Port.

Furthermore, procuratorial authorities will further deepen international judicial exchanges and cooperation as judicial exchanges and cooperation are a crucial part of major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics, Ying said.

“We have actively promoted high-level mutual visits among procuratorial authorities to expand the circle of friends,” Ying said.

On Oct 28, Ying called for procuratorial authorities in China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to increase exchanges and cooperation, during his speech delivered at the opening of the 14th China-ASEAN Prosecutors General Conference held in Singapore.

Also, meetings and exchanges with prosecutors-general and chairmen of judicial committees of more than 20 countries have been held in 2024. So far, the SPP has signed bilateral cooperation agreements with law enforcement and judicial agencies in 100 countries and regions worldwide.

Ying said procuratorial authorities will enhance practical cooperation with foreign prosecutorial authorities in combating transnational crimes and further intensify efforts to combat cross-border telecommunications fraud crimes.

“We will vigorously crack down on violent terrorist forces, ethnic separatist forces and religious extremist forces, and jointly punish international drug trafficking, cross-border gambling, online terrorist activities, telecommunications fraud, cross-border human trafficking, illegal border crossings and cross-border illegal sand mining,” he said.

In April last year, the SPP, together with six other departments, jointly formulated the Provisions on Several Issues Concerning the Implementation of the International Criminal Judicial Assistance Law of the People’s Republic of China, further standardizing procedures for international criminal judicial assistance. After its implementation, 293 criminal judicial assistance cases were handled last year.

He added that it’s necessary to actively participate in the formulation of foreign-related laws and regulations, as well as international rules.

“We will actively join discussions on important issues in international organizations and institutions, engage in the formulation of international rules in areas such as ecological environment protection, financial regulation, cyber governance, intellectual property protection, international economic and trade, as well as negotiations on criminal judicial assistance, extradition, and the transfer of sentenced persons treaties,” Ying said.

In 2024, the SPP participated in negotiations and consultations on the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime and three criminal judicial assistance treaties.

Court Rules Voting Rights Restriction on Young Poong as Unlawful

Most Resolutions from Korea Zinc’s Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting Suspended… A Big Win for Young Poong and MBK Partners

A Green Light for Securing Control Over Korea Zinc

SEOUL, South Korea, March 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The court has ruled that restricting Young Poong’s voting rights at Korea Zinc’s extraordinary shareholders’ meeting on January 23 was unlawful, suspending the effectiveness of most resolutions passed, including the resolution to impose a cap on the number of directors.

Furthermore, as Young Poong’s voting rights restriction was deemed illegal, the duties of the seven Korea Zinc-nominated directors, who were appointed through a process marred by significant procedural defects, have also been suspended.

On March 7, the Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Division 50 granted Young Poong and MBK Partners’ injunction request to suspend the resolutions of Korea Zinc’s extraordinary shareholders’ meeting, ruling that “Under Article 369, Paragraph 3 of the Commercial Act, restricting Young Poong’s voting rights in Korea Zinc is unlawful.” The court consequently suspended the effectiveness of the resolutions on:

Article 1-2: Establishing a cap on the number of directors
Article 1-4: Stock split
Article 1-6: Appointment of the board chair from among outside directors
Article 1-7: Amendment of the dividend record date
Article 1-8: Introduction of quarterly dividends

Additionally, the seven directors nominated by Korea Zinc have been prohibited from exercising their duties as outside directors.

With this ruling, while the resolution to amend the articles of incorporation to introduce cumulative voting (Article 1-1) remains effective, the cap on the number of directors (set at 19) has been nullified, and the seven Korea Zinc-nominated directors can no longer perform their duties.

This decision paves the way for Young Poong and MBK Partners, the largest shareholders, to secure control over Korea Zinc.

Young Poong and MBK Partners welcomed the court’s decision to grant the injunction.

At Korea Zinc’s annual general meeting, expected in late March, a new board of directors will be elected through cumulative voting. Young Poong and MBK Partners have already submitted a shareholder proposal nominating 17 director candidates.

A representative from Young Poong and MBK Partners stated, “We will make every effort to restore corporate governance, shareholder value, and corporate value at Korea Zinc through a fair and transparent annual general meeting.”

Proteus powered Hindalco digital manufacturing platform wins this year’s national manufacturing leadership award

SINGAPORE, March 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — #dltledgers collaboration with its client, Hindalco Industries Limited (Hindalco), an Aditya Birla Group company is one of mutual success. A case study where its client, Hindalco has been honored with the 2025 Leadership Award for Manufacturing Excellence at the Dataquest Digital Leadership Conclave. This recognition highlights Hindalco’s pioneering efforts in contract manufacturing digitalization, made possible through its collaboration with #dltledgers. By leveraging advanced digital transformation, Hindalco has redefined operational efficiency, visibility, and sustainability in contract manufacturing – an essential pillar of India’s manufacturing growth.

#dltledgers is a global multi-party collaboration platform offering state of the art solutions in Multi-tier supply chain, Sustainability, Compliance and Digital finance. The enterprise offers clarity through the seamless virtualization of invisible data points across the value chain. #dltledgers flagship product, Proteus, enhances collaboration and authenticity, leveraging advanced virtualization technologies in Gen AI, Blockchain and Web3 frameworks to streamline data sharing, improve visibility and ensure global compliance.

As Government of India’s, “Made in India” cements its position as a global manufacturing powerhouse, with a projected 4.8% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in the sector, leading enterprises like Hindalco are building global competitive advantage with cutting-edge digital transformation to enhance operational efficiency and ensure end-to-end value chain visibilityContract manufacturing and tolling visibility is now a strategic imperative, unlocking cost leadership, agility, and compliance in an increasingly competitive global landscape.

Pioneering Contract Manufacturing Visibility with Multi-Party Collaboration

#dltledgers initiative assisted its client, Hindalco’s transformation into a multi-party shared data collaboration, which has redefined contract manufacturing operations with inclusion of its ecosystem. Through this initiative, Hindalco has gained immediate cost advantage, real-time visibility across its value chain, seamless collaboration across multiple stakeholders external to the company, and automated compliance management, ensuring optimal efficiency, transparency and sustainability in its supply chain.

This breakthrough was made possible through Proteus, the cutting-edge blockchain-enabled data exchange platform that drives multi-party transactional efficiency with ease. By leveraging Proteus, the client has established seamless supplier collaboration, real-time production tracking, and automated compliance management, ensuring unparalleled transparency and efficiency in contract manufacturing. By eliminating inefficiencies, digitizing contract management, and integrating sustainability tracking into supply chain processes, few of the immediate benefits are 12-15% reduction in operational costs, 50% decrease in manual workflows, enhanced compliance with regulatory and environmental standards, real-time visibility across the supply chain, improved scrap and unprocessed material management in sub-contracting, increased efficiency in packaging material usage, optimized delivery management for reduced lead times and costs.

As a testament to the successful collaboration with #dltledgers, Poorav Sheth, CDIO of Hindalco Industries said, “This award is how collaboration and innovation can drive agility in solving complex business challenges. I am truly proud of the ownership demonstrated by our management and manufacturing teams at Hindalco in embracing these series of transformations for a more collaborated ecosystem. The Proteus platform from #dltledgers has enabled rapid deployment of multi-party collaboration capabilities, and we are excited about the opportunities it unlocks for our ecosystem.”

Championing Sustainability & Green Aluminium Initiatives

Hindalco’s remit goes beyond operational efficiency—it is setting new industry 4.0 benchmarks for green alumina manufacturing. By embedding sustainability metrics into its contract manufacturing processes, Hindalco is actively contributing to India’s green aluminium initiative and advancing circular economy goals and contributing to climate change initiatives globally.

The ability to monitor and manage compliance in real-time ensures adherence to environmental regulations, reduces carbon footprint, and supports waste minimization efforts. With deep tier visibility, multi-tier supply chain reach via collaboration, Hindalco ensures that every partner in the contract manufacturing ecosystem aligns with stringent sustainability and compliance standards. Here, Proteus helps in a democratised approach towards shared data collaboration – it works with its cutting edge hyperconnect technology that supports a distributed software architecture and decentralises the services not for the principal alone, But, each entity in its value chain.

A Defining Moment for India’s Manufacturing Future

The award acknowledges Hindalco’s digital leadership and its industry leadership; key drivers of this transformation, reinforcing their role in shaping the future of India’s manufacturing ecosystem. Multi-party transactional efficiency is no longer an aspiration but a necessity, enabling organizations to navigate complex supply chains with greater agility.

Samir Neji, Chief Product Officer of dltledgers quips, “Our client, Hindalco’s success demonstrates the transformative impact of multi-party multi-tier collaboration in modern manufacturing. With Proteus, they have the ability to service across the value chain, its distributed SDK across the value chain, collaborating every inch of its value chain is a powerful method in democratising the software and making it available. These are cutting edge web 3.0 technology, a competitive advantage for cost leadership. These value chain collaboration showcases how enterprises can leverage ecosystem collaboration technology to streamline operations and build more resilient, compliant, and future-ready ecosystem.”

Proteus demonstrates how multi-party collaboration and digital transformation can drive cost leadership, compliance, sustainability, and competitive advantage. “As companies worldwide navigate increasingly complex supply chains, bilateral regulatory tariff and related challenges, Hindalco’s achievement serves as a model for enterprises seeking to future-proof their operations and embrace a technology-driven manufacturing ecosystem and we feel elated to have played our role”, Samir Neji, #dltledgers added .

About Hindalco Industries Limited

Hindalco Industries Limited, the metals flagship company of the Aditya Birla Group, is a global leader in aluminium and copper manufacturing. Committed to innovation, sustainability, and digital excellence, Hindalco is driving the next era of responsible manufacturing, delivering cutting-edge solutions that optimize performance across industries.