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UN Global Compact and private sector move to accelerate progress on SDGs in Africa

Kampala Declaration calls for scaling up Forward Faster initiative across Africa

KAMPALA, Uganda, April 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — To accelerate progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Africa, the United Nations Global Compact hosted the SDGs Activation Day earlier this week as part of its Forward Faster Now Africa initiative.

The SDG Activation Day served as the private sector space within the 11th Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD-11) held 7-11 April. With the theme, “Moving Forward Faster Now on the SDGs with African Businesses”, the SDG Activation Day brought together CEOs, corporate sustainability professionals, private sector leaders as well as representatives from Governments, policymakers, UN officials and other stakeholders from across Africa for high-level discussions.

With only 17 per cent of SDG targets on track for 2030, the UN Global Compact launched its Forward Faster initiative in 2023 to mobilize ambitious corporate action in high-impact areas: gender equality, living wage, water resilience, climate action and sustainable finance. Forward Faster calls on business leaders everywhere to drive companies to take measurable, credible and ambitious action in 5 areas that have the power to accelerate progress across all 17 SDGs where the private sector can collectively make the biggest, fastest impact by 2030.

Opening discussions, Sanda Ojiambo, CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, emphasized the critical role of private businesses in achieving the 2030 Agenda:

“To achieve the Africa that we all want, we know that we need forward thinkers – bold private sector leaders committed to working together and alongside Governments and civil society. Our UN Global Compact Forward Faster initiative is designed to guide and support business leaders and companies in areas where the business community is best equipped to scale sustainable business and sustainable development. These companies tell us that joining Forward Faster has helped shape company strategy, increase visibility, and build public trust, as well as get ahead of new regulations.”

The convening highlighted the urgent need for businesses to take action, inspiring participants to raise their ambitions. Through dedicated sessions on gender equality, sustainable finance and living wage, attendees heard tangible examples from leading African companies, facilitating peer learning to share best practices. In each session, attendees explored innovative approaches to enhance private sector engagement in sustainability, especially actions that businesses can take now, without any need for additional resources.

In his remarks, Antonio Pedro, Deputy Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), urged business leaders to act decisively, noting that with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) unlocking the potential of a $3.4 trillion market, the opportunities to harness Africa’s potential are immense if done inclusively and sustainably.

“The private sector is no bystander; it is indispensable to job creation, innovation, and ultimately, prosperity for all Africans,” Pedro said. “We must move beyond visions, declarations, and plans— beyond even conferences—and translate these commitments into concrete action.”

The Kampala Declaration, the outcome document of the ARFSD-11, included a call for incentivizing private sector investments aligned with the SDGs and for scaling up the Forward Faster initiative in Africa to accelerate progress on the SDGs and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

Key discussions on driving SDGs action

On sustainable finance, SDG Activation Day participants discussed how innovative public-private-partnerships (PPPs) can serve as a way to collaboratively create transformative impact. Financial services executives also shared how capital can be mobilized towards the SDGs, sharing learnings on risk management, blended finance and financial inclusion.

During the gender equality session, private sector leaders shared how they were able to move the needle within their organizations through recruitment, retention, procurement and male allyship. On living wages, participants called for cross-sector collaboration—from policy and awareness to research and technical support to ensure fair pay that lifts workers out of poverty and fuels economic growth.

Members of the Africa Business Leaders Coalition (ABLC) highlighted how collective action is a multiplier for impact. Leaders shared how the ABLC has already mobilized nearly 5 billion USD for climate action and centred the importance of promoting women’s economic inclusion with the ABLC Gender Statement.

The ARFSD is an annual inter-governmental and multi-stakeholder platform mandated to review progress in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Agenda 2063, while identifying and promoting interventions to accelerate implementation of the two Agendas, and generating Africa’s regional inputs to the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) and other major national, regional, and global meetings.

The African private sector has embraced the sustainable development agenda and the UN Global Compact now counts more than 1,100 participants in the region. To date, more than 115 companies in Africa have made 585 specific commitments to deliver meaningful progress by 2030. We all call on African businesses of all sizes to commit to one or more forward faster targets. For those who are not yet Global Compact participants, learn more about joining the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative HERE.

About the UN Global Compact

The ambition of the UN Global Compact is to accelerate and scale the global collective impact of business by upholding the Ten Principles and delivering the SDGs through accountable companies and ecosystems that enable change. With more than 20,000 participating companies, 5 Regional Hubs, 63 Country Networks covering 80 countries and 13 Country Managers establishing Networks in 18 other countries, the UN Global Compact is the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative—one Global Compact uniting business for a better world.

 

OPPO Unveils Agentic AI Initiative at Google Cloud Next 2025, Showcasing Innovations and Leadership in AI Experiences


LAS VEGAS, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 April 2025 – OPPO articulated its strategic vision for Agentic AI at Google Cloud Next 2025, underscoring its strategy as a leader in AI experiences through in-house development and strategic collaboration with Google.

Photo 1

“OPPO’s focus has always been on the user, and our goal is very clear: to lead innovation in AI experience and provide the best experience,” stated Jason Liao, President of the OPPO Research Institute. “We are continuously enhancing AI experiences through strategic collaborations with partners like Google Cloud, aiming to deliver Agentic AI capabilities to OPPO users.”

At Google Cloud Next 2025, OPPO showcased AI Search, a powerful system-level AI tool in collaboration with Google Cloud, which empowers users to efficiently search and retrieve complex multimodal document information using natural language queries. Furthermore, OPPO highlighted its significant advancements and innovative features across AI Productivity, AI Creativity, and AI Imaging.

Looking ahead, OPPO is actively exploring the next phase of Agentic AI experiences, with a focus on creating personalized and intelligent user experience.

OPPO is developing a new user knowledge system to serve as a centralized repository for user data, addressing the challenge of information fragmentation on mobile devices. It is designed to learn and adapt from user activities, interests, data, and memories, to provide highly personalized AI experiences, driving progress towards a future vision of intelligent, AI-driven operating systems.

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Earlier this year, OPPO announced its latest advancement in AI Security with the launch of AI Private Computing Cloud (PCC), which leverages Confidential Computing from Google Cloud. It provides a dedicated and secure environment, ensuring that AI data processing happens within a secure, isolated system with end-to-end encryption to keep all AI interactions private.

Leveraging cutting-edge innovation and a steadfast commitment to enhancing user experience, OPPO is collaborating with key partners like Google Cloud to accelerate the development and adoption of AI technology, ultimately redefining the daily experience of AI across devices and services. By the end of 2025, OPPO aspires to empower nearly 100 million users worldwide to harness the transformative potential of OPPO AI.

Hashtag: #OPPO

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

About OPPO

OPPO is a leading global smart device brand. Since the launch of its first mobile phone – “Smiley Face” – in 2008, OPPO has been in relentless pursuit of the perfect synergy of aesthetic satisfaction and innovative technology. Today, OPPO provides a wide range of smart devices spearheaded by the Find and Reno series. Beyond devices, OPPO also provides its users with ColorOS operating system and internet services. OPPO has footprints in more than 70 countries and regions, with more than 40,000 employees dedicated to creating a better life for customers around the world.

Wynn Reveals the Winners of the 2025 Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards at Grand Ceremony

More than 200 industry guests witnessed the prestigious annual awards event in Macao

and Wynn immediately implements global promotion plan for the award-winning wines

MACAO, April 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Created by “Wynn Signature”, Wynn’s exclusive lifestyle brand, the Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards ceremony was held today (April 11), with the support of the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO). More than 200 wine experts, representatives from China’s leading wineries, industry professionals, international media and wine enthusiasts from around the world gathered in Macao to honor the finest wines of China. Immediately following the awards event, Wynn is implementing a global promotion strategy for all the award-winning wines through its acclaimed signature restaurants and its influential network of global resources to expand the Chinese wine market and boost brand awareness for China’s leading wines.

Renyiyuan Tao Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, produced by Ningxia Helan Mountain Renyiyuan Winery, earned the highly coveted “Best Wine of China” award this year
Renyiyuan Tao Cabernet Sauvignon 2020, produced by Ningxia Helan Mountain Renyiyuan Winery, earned the highly coveted “Best Wine of China” award this year

After an intense week of rigorous judging, the Ningxia Helan Mountain Renyiyuan Winery scooped the most awards this year, with Renyiyuan Tao Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 winning the highly coveted “Best Wine of China award and also garnering “Best Red Wine”, “Best of Ningxia” and “Best Cabernet Sauvignon”. Kai Kang, the winemaker from Ningxia Helan Mountain Renyiyuan Winery also became the first individual to receive the “Best Young Winemaker” award, which was just introduced this year. A variety of high-quality wines from China also received numerous awards including Helan Mountain Special Reserve Chardonnay 2021, which received two awards for “Best White Wine” and “Best Chardonnay”. Domaine Franco-Chinois Reserve Marselan 2012 earned “Best of North China” and “Best Marselan”, while Tiansai Sparkling Wine 2017 received “Best of Xinjiang” and “Best Sparkling Wine” honors.

Distinguished guests attending the opening ceremony to officially launch this year’s awards included: Representative of the Secretary for Economy and Finance of the Macao SAR Government, Director of Macao Government Tourism Office, Ms. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes; Acting President of the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macao SAR Government, Mr. Cheang Kai Meng;  Acting President the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute for the Macao SAR Government, Ms. Elaine Wong; Director of the Department of Economic Affairs, The Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao Special Administrative Region, Mr. Guo Xiaohui;  President, Vice Chairman and Executive Director of Wynn Macau, Limited, Ms. Linda Chen; Chief Operating Officer and Executive Director of Wynn Macau, Limited, Mr. Frederic Luvisutto; Chairman of the Competition for the Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards, Mr. Eddie McDougall; Vice Chair of the Competition, Ms. Fongyee Walker MW and Panel Chair of the Competition, Mr. Xing Wei MW.

Representative of the Secretary for Economy and Finance of the Macao SAR Government, Director of Macao Government Tourism Office, Ms. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes said in her speech: “The ‘2025 Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards’ exemplifies Macao’s commitment to promoting diverse “tourism +” and fostering integrated development across tourism and the related sectors. By synergizing major events with industry collaboration, this initiative highlights Macao’s role as a bridge connecting the international community. The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) encourages the industry to keep organizing high-quality, world-class events, continuously deepening “tourism + gastronomy”, “tourism + MICE” and beyond. We look forward to joining hands with all sectors to strengthen Macao’s brands as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and a world center of tourism and leisure, brighten the city’s golden calling card as an international metropolis. Through diverse tourism offerings, we aim to attract a broader spectrum of visitor markets, bringing sustainable benefits to Macao.”

President, Vice Chairman and Executive Director of Wynn Macau, Limited, Ms. Linda Chen said: “This year, we are extremely honored that the Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards have been officially included in the program of the “Culture City of East Asia 2025 – Macao, China” by the Macao SAR Government. This honor will further strengthen Macao’s strategic positioning as ‘a platform for international exchange where Chinese culture is the mainstream and diverse cultures coexist’, giving visitors an opportunity to appreciate China’s rich and profound cultural heritage. With our strong global industry network, we will continue our visionary approach toward advancing the culinary industry with innovative ideas in future. Macao serves as the perfect international platform to showcase wines, and we also look forward to continuing to host world-class wine events, masterclasses and other major events to promote Chinese wines on the global stage. We are also excited to share captivating Chinese cultural stories with the world and showcase the excellence of Chinese brands.”

Wynn Signature’s Best Chinese Wines of the Year List

The elevated judging panel for the 2025 wine competition featured 27 of the world’s leading authorities on wine, including 10 Masters of Wine (MW), 3 Master Sommeliers (MS), and 1 industry expert with dual MW and MS certifications. In keeping with international judging protocols, the wine tastings for nearly 900 varieties of wine from close to 200 of China’s top wineries were conducted blind, and wines were appraised according to the internationally recognized 100-point system to award bronze medals (85-89 points), silver medals (90-94 points) and gold medals (95-100 points). After rigorous evaluation, the “Wynn Signature Best Wine of China Trophy” as well as the trophies for wines across three divisions: “Wynn Signature Trophies”, “Varietals Champion Trophies” and “Regional Champion Trophies” were selected from the Gold Medal List. Wynn also introduced two new award categories this year: “Wynn Sommelier’s Choice” and “Best Young Winemaker”. Each one of these accolades applauds the new benchmarks set by the industry and shines a light on the ingenuity of Chinese winemakers as well as the remarkable breakthroughs that the Chinese wine industry has achieved around the world.  

The Official 2025 Trophy Award Winners List:

Awards

Wines

Regions

Best Wine of China

Renyiyuan Tao Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

Ningxia

 Best Red Wine

  Renyiyuan Tao Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

Ningxia

Best White Wine

Helan Mountain Special Reserve Chardonnay 2021

Ningxia

Best Rosé Wine

Longting Spring Rosé 2023

Shandong

Best Sweet Wine

Sacred Snow Mountain Winery Hualuoxiangyun Icewine 2023

Yunnan

Best Sparkling Wine

Tiansai Sparkling Wine 2017

Xinjiang

Best Value Wine

Chateau Zhongfei Marselan 2022

Xinjiang

Best Young Winemaker

Kai Kang (Ningxia Helan Mountain Renyiyuan Winery)

/

 Best of Ningxia

Renyiyuan Tao Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

Ningxia

Best of North China

Domaine Franco-Chinois Reserve Marselan 2012

Hebei

Best of Northeast China

United Winery Marvelous Vidal Icewine 2023

Liaoning

Best of Shaanxi, Gansu & Shanxi

Amber Winery Memorable Jin Prestige Cuvée Cabernet Sauvignon2022

Shanxi

Best of Shandong

Longting Spring Rosé 2023

Shandong

Best of Southwest High Mountain

Sacred Snow Mountain Winery Hualuoxiangyun Icewine 2023

Yunnan

Best of Xinjiang

Tiansai Sparkling Wine 2017

Xinjiang

Best Chardonnay

Helan Mountain Special Reserve Chardonnay 2021

Ningxia

Best Viognier

Chateau Mihope Viognier 2022

Ningxia

Best Other Dry White

Chateau Hesoute White Muscat 2022

Xinjiang

Best Cabernet Sauvignon

Renyiyuan Tao Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

Ningxia

Best Cabernet Gernischt

Xige Estate Jade Dove Single Vineyard Cabernet Gernischt 2021

Ningxia

Best Marselan

Domaine Franco-Chinois Reserve Marselan 2012

Hebei

Best Syrah/Shiraz

Chateau Hedong Syrah 2023

Ningxia

Best Red Blends

Yuanshi Vineyard Ruyi Marselan 2020

Ningxia

Drunken Fish Sommelier’s Choice

Xiaoling White 2022

Yunnan

Wing Lei Sommelier’s Choice

Lansai Yingchuan Red Pinot Noir 2022

Ningxia

Chef Tam’s Seasons Sommelier’s Choice

Zaxee Oak Reserve Chardonnay 2023

Yunnan

Lakeview Palace Sommelier’s Choice

Domaine Franco-Chinois Réserve 2019

Hebei

SW Steakhouse Sommelier’s Choice

Renyiyuan Tao Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Ningxia

Mizumi Sommelier’s Choice

Fei Tswei Petit Manseng Sweet White Wine 2021

Ningxia

 

Following the awards ceremony, Wynn hosted four major events, giving industry players an opportunity to exchange ideas and explore the local terroirs of China’s rich wine landscape. Xing Wei MW invited industry veterans and representatives of wineries from China’s seven core wine production regions to reflect on the development of Chinese wine over the past five decades during the “50 Years of Challenges: The Renaissance of Chinese Wine Forum”. Julien Boulard MW also hosted the “Marselan: A Signature Grape of Chinese Wine” Masterclass to introduce the beauty of Marselan, a unique Chinese grape varietal in a simplistic way. In the evening, the Michelin two-starred Chef Tam’s Seasons at Wynn Palace and the Michelin two-starred Wing Lei at Wynn Macau hosted two award-winning wine dinners. At Wynn Palace, Chef Tam’s Seasons hosted the Cantonese Master Chef Tam Kwok Fung – A Cantonese Feast of Six Chinese Regions’ Wine & Ingredients”, while at Wing Lei hosted the Executive Chef Chan Tak Kwong – Award-winning Chinese Wines Paired with Traditional Cantonese Cuisine”, where award-winning Chinese wines were thoughtfully paired with each chef’s carefully crafted dishes.

Promoting the award-winning Chinese wines globally

The goal of the Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards is to provide a strategic platform for the long-term promotion of high-quality Chinese wines and empower the Chinese wine industry to expand internationally. Therefore, Wynn has already launched a global promotion plan for the award-winning wines which is set to commence immediately following the awards event.

First, Wynn received the support of the Macao SAR Government to participate in the programme of the “Culture City of East Asia 2025 – Macao, China” with the 2025 Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards, further cementing Macao’s role as “a base for exchange and cooperation where Chinese culture is the mainstream and diverse cultures coexist”, leveraging Macao’s unique advantages as a city featuring the integration of Chinese and Western cultures, and showcasing the charm of Chinese culture to the world.

Also, all the award-winning Chinese wines from the competition will be featured on the daily wine lists at the leading restaurants and bars at Wynn – Chef Tam’s Seasons, Lakeview Palace, SW Steakhouse, Mizumi, Wing Lei Bar, and Palace Reserve Club at Wynn Palace, as well as Wing Lei, Drunken Fish, Cinnebar, and Bar Cristal at Wynn Macau. The much-anticipated “Gourmet Pavilion” which opens on April 29 at Wynn Palace, will also offer the award-winning wines from China.

In future, Wynn will also host a wine tasting event for the award-winning Chinese wines at 67 Pall Mall, a private members’ wine club in Singapore. Members of 67 Pall Mall and wine professionals will be invited to the exclusive event, where they will have an opportunity to taste the top Chinese wines recognized at this year’s Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards. The award-winning wines will also be offered at future wine tasting events, themed banquets, food and wine pairing events and more annual gastronomy events held at Wynn throughout the year. Additionally, the wines may be showcased at major international wine exhibitions for greater global exposure.

To learn more about the winners of the Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards and future promotions, please visit the official website: https://www.wynnresortsmacau.com/en/wynn-palace/whats-on/wynn-signature-chinese-wine-awards

 

The President, Vice Chairman and Executive Director of Wynn Macau, Limited, Ms. Linda Chen spoke at the 2025 Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards ceremony
The President, Vice Chairman and Executive Director of Wynn Macau, Limited, Ms. Linda Chen spoke at the 2025 Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards ceremony

The 2025 Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards, evaluated by a 27-member judging panel of the world’s leading authorities on wine, presented the “Wynn Signature Best Wine of China Trophy” as well as the trophies for wines across three divisions. Two new award categories – “Wynn Sommelier’s Choice” and “Best Young Winemaker” – were also introduced this year.
The 2025 Wynn Signature Chinese Wine Awards, evaluated by a 27-member judging panel of the world’s leading authorities on wine, presented the “Wynn Signature Best Wine of China Trophy” as well as the trophies for wines across three divisions. Two new award categories – “Wynn Sommelier’s Choice” and “Best Young Winemaker” – were also introduced this year.

Global Times: Believing in China, believing in tomorrow

BEIJING, April 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — “Believing in China” has become a buzz phrase this spring. 

“For us, opportunities exist in all Chinese cities” and “China’s scientific and technological innovation ecosystem injects surging momentum into promoting global coordinated development”… The annual meetings of the three high-level forums, the China Development Forum, the Boao Forum for Asia, and the Zhongguancun Forum, have been held one after another and “giving the world reason for optimism about China’s outlook” has become a general consensus.

International pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca announced that it will establish its sixth global strategic R&D center in Beijing. Shanghai Pudong welcomed 13 more regional headquarters of multinational corporations and four more foreign-funded R&D centers… Global chairmen and chief executive officers of foreign businesses visited China intensively, and “going to China” has become the firm choice of many foreign investors.

At a time when the world economy is in turmoil, why has “believing in China” become a unanimous belief?

“Embracing China is embracing opportunities, believing in China is believing in a better tomorrow, and investing in China is investing in the future,” President Xi Jinping said while meeting with representatives of the international business community in Beijing on March 28.

Belief comes from confidence. As an “oasis of certainty,” China is injecting confidence, momentum and positive energy into the development of the world economy.

Innovation advantage

Believing in China, because China firmly regards high-quality development as its top priority and develops new quality productive forces in accordance with local conditions.

China is always surprising the world with new things,” the words of former US Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez represent the change in the perception of China among many international observers.

From the “world factory” to the “innovation laboratory,” China’s innovation and development has accumulated a lot of strength and has great potential. In the first two months of this year, the output of high-tech products such as industrial robots, bullet trains, and civil drones in China increased by 27 percent, 64 percent, and 91.5 percent year-on-year, respectively, and the growth of innovative products such as “AI plus” has accelerated.

Today, more and more foreign companies regard innovation as the biggest opportunity for investing in China. 

China is no longer just a manufacturing center; it is a global innovation powerhouse, said Stefan Hartung, chairman of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH.

China’s development has never relied on “predatory behavior” to change the rules of the game, but rather on seeking its own development space in market competition through active innovation. At present, China has built more than 30,000 basic-level smart factories, more than 1,200 advanced-level smart factories, and more than 230 excellent-level smart factories, which will effectively enable industrial transformation and upgrading. 

Believing in China, because China “stands firm on the right side of history and the side of human civilization’s progress.”

Opening door wider

China’s policy measures to expand high-level opening-up resonate with the needs of multinational companies to maintain the stability of the industrial and supply chain, injecting valuable certainty into the world economy.

Everyone is willing to make friends with China because they are attracted by China’s concept of coexistence in harmony. The common development concept has brought more exchanges in cooperation areas: among the snow-capped mountains of Kyrgyzstan, tunnel engineering vehicles of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway roar day and night; with the Port of Chancay in Peru as a link, Colombia and Ecuador have opened new routes to China

“The interests to be considered should be the interests of all.” This is China’s vision, and this is China’s action.

From launching pilot projects to expand opening-up in the fields of value-added telecommunications and biotechnology, to support domestic and foreign-funded enterprises equally in participating in large-scale equipment upgrades, consumer goods trade-in and other activities; from expanding the “visa-free circle of friends” to “China Travel” becoming trendy on the internet…an open China allows the world to share development opportunities.

“International cooperation is not an option, but a necessity,” said Mustafa Shenhu, president of the World Federation of Engineering Organizations.

We must solidly promote high-level opening up, not only making good use of the global market and resources to develop ourselves, but also promoting the common development of the world. This is the open pursuit that China has always held.

Remarkable resilience

Believing in China, because China always “grows in the wind and rain, and gets stronger through hard times.” 

Despite facing headwinds in the global economy, China’s economy has still demonstrated remarkable resilience, as foreign media has given a fair evaluation of China’s economic performance since last year.

Around 5 percent, a growth target that once got on people’s nerves. Last year, due to various factors, China’s economy faced an unfavorable situation of unstable market expectations and confidence, as well as a decline in the growth rate of key indicators.

A package of incremental policies was introduced intensively, becoming “a milestone move in macroeconomic regulation,” which not only stabilized economic growth but also enhanced the resilience and vitality of economic development.

The hard-earned 5 percent has shown the international community the strong resilience of the Chinese economy and the bright prospects for high-quality development.

Compared to last year’s doubts, this year’s growth target of around 5 percent for China is winning increasing external recognition. Foreign financial institutions generally believe that the continued effective implementation of various macro policies this year will accumulate more positive factors, driving China’s economy to continue to recover and improve.

In the face of wind and rain, a solid economic foundation, the advantage of an ultra-large-scale market, and a complete industrial system have given China strong confidence to cope with challenges. As a foreign guest at the China Development Forum said, “China possesses all the elements needed for future growth.”

With institutional advantages, market potential, and enterprise vitality, by focusing on running its own affairs well, the resilient Chinese economy will surely become even stronger after the storm.

We are now on the right path and must press ahead. 

Believing in China, believing in tomorrow.

The article was originally published on the front page of the People’s Daily on April 11, 2025.

BeLive Holdings Announces Closing of Over-Allotment Option in its Public Offering

SINGAPORE, April 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BeLive Holdings (the “Company” or “BeLive”), a provider of live commerce and shoppable short videos solutions (“BeLive Solutions”) to international retail companies and e-commerce marketplaces, today announced today that it has issued an additional 262,228 ordinary shares (the “Ordinary Shares”) at a public offering price of US$4.00 per share for gross proceeds of approximately $1,048,912 pursuant to the partial exercise of the underwriter’s over-allotment option in connection with the Company’s previously announced public offering. 

R.F. Lafferty & Co., Inc. (“R.F. Lafferty”) acted as sole book-running manager for the Offering. Schlueter & Associates, P.C. acted as U.S. counsel to the Company, and Lucosky Brookman LLP acted as U.S. counsel to R.F. Lafferty, in connection with the Offering.

A registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-280739) relating to the Offering, as amended, has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and was declared effective by the SEC on March 31, 2025. The Offering was made only by means of a prospectus. Copies of the final prospectus related to the Offering may be obtained from R.F. Lafferty by email at offerings@rflafferty.com or via standard mail to R.F. Lafferty & Co., Inc, 40 Wall Street, 27th Floor, New York, NY10005. In addition, a copy of the final prospectus can also be obtained via the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov

Before you invest, you should read the prospectus and other documents the Company has filed or will file with the SEC for more information about the Company and the Offering. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described herein, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About BeLive Holdings Limited

Headquartered in Singapore, BeLive provides live commerce and shoppable short videos solutions (“BeLive Solutions”) to international retail companies and e-commerce marketplaces. Our BeLive Solutions enable our customers to leverage the power of interactive and immersive live and video commerce to their online business and enable our customers to curate unique videos that may also be aired real-time as they are simultaneously being recorded, for anytime instant replay. We categorize our BeLive Solutions into (i) an enterprise-grade BeLive White Label Solution which is customized to meet a customer’s unique requirements, and which can be integrated into their existing internal system and (ii) a cloud-based software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution (“BeLive SaaS Solution”) for customers who are looking for a quick and cost-effective live commerce and shoppable short video solution without the necessity of building their own infrastructure and technology stack. For more information, please visit: http://www.belive.technology

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. When the Company uses words such as “may, “will, “intend,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate” or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the Company’s statements regarding the expected trading of its Ordinary Shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market and the closing of the Offering. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the uncertainties related to market conditions and the completion of the initial public offering on the anticipated terms or at all, and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the registration statement filed with the SEC. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

For more information, please contact: ir@belive.sg 

AB Charity Foundation Launches to Pioneer a New Global Model for Public Good Driven by Institutional Trust and Technology

SINGAPORE, April 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AB Charity Foundation has officially launched its global operations and unveiled its newly upgraded website at www.ab.org, marking the beginning of a public-interest initiative built on institutional credibility and advanced blockchain technology. Headquartered in Ireland with recognized legal status under EU law, the Foundation is positioned as a global nonprofit entity committed to reshaping the future of public trust and sustainable development by bridging governments, civil society, and the tech community.

The Foundation’s governance is led by a distinguished board of directors composed of former heads of state from Europe. The board is chaired by Bertie Ahern, former three-term Prime Minister of Ireland and a key architect of the Good Friday Agreement. Board members include Lawrence Gonzi (former Prime Minister of Malta), Péter Medgyessy (former Prime Minister of Hungary), Danilo Türk (former President of Slovenia), and Petar Stoyanov (former President of Bulgaria).

The Foundation is actively expanding its global advisory board, bringing together respected figures from all five continents—including former presidents, scientists, diplomats, and cultural leaders—to guide strategic planning and foster international collaboration in delivering impactful social initiatives.

At the heart of the Foundation’s mission lies a commitment to public good: advancing global efforts in education, healthcare, environmental protection, and humanitarian aid. The Foundation aims to build a “verifiable model of cooperative goodwill,” powered by transparent governance and next-generation technology. As its founders emphasize, “It is not a specific technology that changes the world—but the shared consensus around trustworthy institutions and global cooperation.”

AB Charity Foundation is technically supported by AB DAO, which provides the blockchain infrastructure underpinning the Foundation’s operations. Through smart contract automation, 15% to 30% of the gas fees from every transaction on the AB public chain are directed into a dedicated charity pool. This mechanism enables a new operational model for charitable funding—combining on-chain fundraising, automated distribution, full-chain auditability, and third-party compliance assurance.

In addition, 15% to 30% of the returns generated from investments by the AB Ecosystem Fund will also be directed into the Foundation’s pool. The fund has already supported dozens of projects, with more initiatives in the pipeline—strengthening the financial sustainability of the Foundation’s mission.

By leveraging blockchain’s inherent transparency, the Foundation aspires to become a scalable model for next-generation philanthropic infrastructure—ensuring every donation is traceable, every distribution verifiable, and every intention honored.

To follow AB Charity Foundation and support its mission

 

HKPC Launches “The Cradle – Going Global Service Centre” Partners with Three National Innovation Centres Achieves Three Early Going Global Success Cases

Empowering Enterprises in Global Expansion and Reinforcing Hong Kong’s Position as an International Innovation and Technology Hub


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 April 2025 – The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) officially launched “The Cradle – Going Global Service Centre” (The Cradle) today, supported by the Zhongguancun Beijing-Hong Kong-Macao Youth Innovation Centre, the National Innovation Centre par Excellence (NICE), and the Greater Bay Area National Centre of Technology Innovation. The Cradle will assist enterprises in expanding into international markets. The launch coincided with the “Enterprises Going Global Conference”, which gathered over 500 leaders from government, industry, academia, research and investment sectors to explore internationalisation strategies and global market opportunities.

Located at the HKPC Building, The Cradle offers one-stop professional support for Hong Kong and mainland tech innovation enterprises, including international standards alignment, product localisation and internationalisation support, intellectual property management and protection, and overseas regulatory compliance. It is designed to empower more Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises succeed in the global market.

This year’s Government Work Report from the “Two Sessions” emphasised Hong Kong should “deepen international exchanges and cooperation”. With the distinctive advantages of One Country, Two Systems, enjoying strong support of the Motherland and being closely connected to the world, Hong Kong serves as an ideal launchpad for both Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises to pilot new products and business models before entering international markets. Leveraging HKPC’s technical expertise and international networks, The Cradle will enable enterprises to navigate global standards and enhance their international competitiveness.

To mark its launch, The Cradle is showcasing three early Going Global success cases from UISEE Technology (Beijing) Ltd, Beijing Tashan Technology Co., Ltd, and Beijing Yunji Technology Co., Ltd. Drawing on HKPC’s extensive experience in standards testing, applied R&D, scenario-based deployment, and smart manufacturing, The Cradle will also leverage Hong Kong’s strengths in intellectual property protection, supply chain management, trade finance, and ESG to support enterprise upgrades in smart manufacturing, green transformation, and digitalisation. HKPC will join hands with its partners to explore new global opportunities for enterprises and forge a comprehensive support network for going global.

The “Enterprises Going Global Conference” and the inauguration ceremony of “The Cradle” were officiated by Professor SUN Dong, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, and Hon Sunny TAN, Chairman of the Hong Kong Productivity Council.

In his opening remarks, Professor SUN Dong, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, stated: “The country has been vigorously advancing technology development in recent years, with a growing number of tech enterprises emerging and seeking new breakthroughs and business opportunities. As global competition intensifies, going global has become a key development strategy for enterprises. With our unique position as an international financial and trading hub, Hong Kong is accelerating the development into an international I&T centre and is well-placed to serve as a launch pad for enterprises. The establishment of The Cradle – Going Global Service Centre will enhance cross-regional collaboration, accelerate the integration of technology and industry, and support more enterprises in expanding globally through Hong Kong. This further reinforces Hong Kong’s status as an international I&T hub.”

Hon Sunny TAN, Chairman of the Hong Kong Productivity Council, stated in his welcome remark, “HKPC has long been committed to driving new industrialisation and supporting enterprise transformation and upgrading. In alignment with the national innovation-driven development strategy, we are collaborating with three major innovation hubs — in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region, the Yangtze River Delta, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area — which together serve tens of thousands of enterprises. Over the past decade, HKPC has completed over 1,400 smart projects in the Greater Bay Area, and launched the ‘9+3+1 Development Plan’ to establish service bases and R&D centres, empowering SMEs to expand globally with high quality. As economies in the Global South continue to rise, we look forward to working across sectors through ‘The Cradle’ to forge a strong and sustainable outbound ecosystem for both Hong Kong and Mainland enterprises.”

Mr Zhang Kai, Executive Deputy General Manager of the Zhongguancun Beijing-Hong Kong-Macao Youth Innovation Centre highlighted the significance of The Cradle’s establishment as a major milestone. He said that this initiative will provide Beijing’s technology enterprises with comprehensive internationalization support to accelerate the global deployment of cutting-edge innovations. He added that his team anticipate strengthening its collaboration with HKPC to enhance cross-border partnerships, develop high-potential projects, and empower Beijing-based companies to succeed internationally.

Professor LIU Qing, Director of National Innovation Center par Excellence (NICE) said, “National Innovation Centre par Excellence(NICE)has always been committed to building an open and integrated innovation ecosystem to facilitate the globalization of enterprises, manifested by nurturing numerous joint innovation centres, internationally competitive R&D platforms, and project companies. Looking forward, we will continue to deepen our cooperation with HKPC, taking full benefits of Hong Kong’s regional advantages offered through Cradle, to help the Yangtze Delta enterprises overcoming the bottlenecks of global expansion. We will further leverage the industrial and innovation advantages of the Yangtze Delta, and work together with HKPC to create a new paradigm of ‘Yangtze Delta Cultivation + Hong Kong Services + Global Market’, so as to promote more enterprises to go global.”

Mr Wang Debao, Deputy Director of the Greater Bay Area National Centre of Technology Innovation stated that The Cradle leverages the international platform advantages of HKPC to provide the whole chain support for enterprises from technical verification to overseas implementation, serving as a critical bridge for their global expansion. The Greater Bay Area National Center of Technology Innovation will actively deepen collaboration with major innovation hubs, assisting mainland enterprises in overcoming technical barriers and challenges in international markets, and accelerating the high-quality development and global application of new quality productivity achievements.

Enterprises Going Global Conference Explores Global Innovation Opportunities

The Enterprises Going Global Conference featured in-depth discussions with leading industry speakers on global market trends, technology innovation, and policy-capital synergy. Key topics included global expansion strategies, overcoming internationalisation challenges, and leveraging professional services, technology collaboration, and regulatory frameworks to support sustainable global growth.

Hashtag: #HKPC

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

The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC)

The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is a multi-disciplinary organisation established by statute in 1967, to promote productivity excellence through relentless drive of world-class advanced technologies and innovative service offerings to support Hong Kong enterprises. As a nationwide leader in innovative, market-driven research and development (R&D) internationally, specialising in leading technologies and all-rounded manufacturing services, HKPC promotes new industrialisation in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area and facilitates the development of new productive forces, leveraging innovation and technology (I&T), as well as bolstering Hong Kong to be an international innovation and technology centre and a smart city. The Council offers comprehensive innovative solutions for Hong Kong industries and enterprises, enabling them to achieve resources and productivity utilisation, effectiveness and cost reduction, and enhance competitiveness in both local and overseas marketplace. The Council partners and collaborates with local industries and enterprises and world-class R&D institutes to develop applied technology solutions for value creation. It also benefits a variety of sectors through product innovation, technology transfer, and commercialisation, bringing enormous business opportunities ahead. HKPC’s world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades.

In addition, HKPC offers SMEs and startups immediate and timely assistance in coping with the ever-changing business environment and strengthens talent nurturing and Hong Kong’s competitiveness with FutureSkills training for enterprises and academia to enhance digital capabilities and STEM competencies.

For more information, please visit:

DOWNTOWN FARMERS’ MARKET TO KICK OFF 50TH SEASON ON SATURDAY, MAY 3

GREATER DES MOINES, Iowa, April 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Opening day for the 50th season of the Downtown Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health is under a month away. The Market will begin on Saturday, May 3 from 7 a.m. – Noon in the Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines (DSM).

The Downtown Farmers’ Market began in 1976 with just 15 vendors and an average of 200 shoppers. Today, The Market supports more than 300 vendors and welcomes tens of thousands of visitors each Saturday. An estimated 40,000 shoppers typically visit on opening day and key peak dates throughout the season.

The Market supports local small business owners, including farmers, producers, bakers and artists that represent 38 counties across the state of Iowa. The Market offers a variety of attractions and activities including shopping for fresh produce, seasonal flowers, farm fresh eggs and cheese, locally produced wine and fresh baked goods as well as a variety of Iowa-raised meat. Patrons can also eat breakfast, enjoy the atmosphere, meet with family and friends and enjoy live entertainment. This year, The Market will feature 49 new vendors of all types and expand its footprint to 12 city blocks in the Historic Court District of Downtown DSM.

“Opening day of the Downtown Farmers’ Market’s 50th season is a celebration of the community not just here in Downtown DSM but all over the Greater Des Moines region and state,” said Elizabeth Weyers, Downtown Farmers’ Market Manager. “We look forward to welcoming new and returning patrons to experience the energy, fresh local products and special moments that make The Market a special tradition in Downtown DSM.”

Here are some highlights at The Market in 2025: 

  • Friends of The Market program invites support from individuals and private family foundations to help ensure the continued growth and sustainability of the Downtown Farmers’ Market. This program is intended for personal contributions in support of The Market, not corporate sponsorships. Contact Kathryn Smith for more information.
  • The Market will participate in Choose Iowa through the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship as well as participating in food assistance programs, Produce RX and Double Up Food Bucks, through the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative. For full details on available programs and eligibility, visit The Market’s website.
  • The Spark DSM Business Incubator will return in 2025. Selected vendors will get multiple dates at The Market throughout the season and have access to year-round classes and supplemental education. A total of 11 Spark DSM vendors from 2024 have become regular Market vendors in 2025.
  • Those interested in volunteering at The Market can now sign up for a shift through VolunteerLocal.

“We are proud to support the Downtown Farmers’ Market as it celebrates its 50th season, bringing fresh, local food and a sense of community to Downtown DSM,” said Jon Rozenfeld, President of UnityPoint Health – Des Moines. “Access to fresh, nutritious food is a key part to our community living a long and healthy life. Plus, The Market provides the opportunity for people to connect with local farmers, support small businesses and make healthy choices. We look forward to another season of fostering a vibrant, healthy community.”

Visit The Market website for more information.

About the Downtown Farmers’ Market
The Downtown Farmers’ Market is held every Saturday morning May – October in the Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines. The Market also produces the Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market in November. Find more information at desmoinesfarmersmarket.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/DowntownFarmersMarket and on Twitter and Instagram at @dtfarmersmarket.

About Downtown DSM, Inc.
Downtown DSM, Inc. is part of the Greater Des Moines Partnership and is dedicated to ensuring the continued growth of Downtown Des Moines (DSM). A strong region needs a strong Downtown. Downtown DSM, Inc. leads efforts to drive development, placemaking and events in Downtown DSM. It promotes Downtown through integration of retail, restaurants, businesses, housing, events and placemaking. The Downtown Events Group enhances the vibrancy of Downtown DSM through the creation, elevation and activation of arts, culture and humanities events and community placemaking. Learn more at downtowndsmusa.com.

About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves 12 counties in Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa: Adair, Clarke, Dallas, Guthrie, Jasper, Madison, Mahaska, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek and Warren. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 6,700 Regional Business Members, The Partnership drives economic growth and talent development to advance quality of life in DSM with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.

Contact:
Kyle Oppenhuizen
koppenhuizen@DSMpartnership.com
(515) 286-4972
Learn More About DSM USA