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Tianfu Rapoil Shines at Hong Kong Hometown Market Carnival

HONG KONG, June 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This is a report from Xinhuanet:

Co-organized by 30 provincial-level hometown associations in Hong Kong, the “Third Hometown Market Carnival” was kicked off on June 1 in Victoria Park, marking the beginning of the five-day event. The Sichuan Provincial Grain and Material Reserve Bureau showcased its premium products under the ‘Tianfu Rapoil’ brand at the event, becoming the star attraction in this year.

Tianfu Rapoil Shines at Hong Kong Hometown Market Carnival
Tianfu Rapoil Shines at Hong Kong Hometown Market Carnival

At the event, Tianfu Rapoil brought nearly 2,000 products, ranging from ‘Traditional Small-Pressed Rich-Aromatic Rapeseed Oil’ made using non-heritage pressing techniques, to low-erucic acid rapeseed oil, and small-packaged rapeseed oil specifically designed for younger consumers. On-site, residents and tourists participated in ‘Come to Play and Win Oil in Victoria Park’. They not only won Tianfu Rapoil products but also received its limited-edition cultural and creative merchandise. Items such as umbrellas, folding fans, and canvas bags featuring panda patterns became the most sought-after items at the event.

This year’s Hong Kong Hometown Market Carnival features a special Chinese Food Street, with 30 food stalls offering cuisines from all over China. When Tianfu Rapoil meets regional specialities such as Xinjiang lamb skewers, Shaanxi Roujiamo, and Hunan Changde rice noodles, magical sparks occur.

At Xinjiang association stall, chefs blended Tianfu rapeseed oil with cumin and chili powder to create a secret sauce brushed onto sizzling lamb skewers, drawing a snaking line of eager customers. At Shaanxi association stall, chefs tried Tianfu rapeseed oil to bake Roujiamo, praised by diners as a ‘soulful carb bomb’. At Hunan association stall, chefs used Tianfu rapeseed oil to prepare the special topping for Changde rice noodles, delighting noodle lovers with its fragrant and refreshing taste.

During the event, procurement managers from local Hong Kong catering groups and buyers from high-end supermarkets were drawn by the aroma. “The fragrance of Tianfu Rapoil is unique. After testing it in cooking, we noticed a significant improvement in the dishes’ flavor,” said a procurement representative from a well-known chain restaurant, who expressed immediate interest in establishing a stable supply channel after learning about the oil’s production process and quality standards. 

The flood of partnership inquiries reflects the robust strength of Sichuan’s rapeseed industry. As the province with the largest rapeseed cultivation area and the highest rapeseed oil consumption in China, Sichuan has in recent years taken the Tianfu Rapoil initiative as a starting point to drive the upgrading of the entire industrial chain, and enabled Tianfu Rapoil to stand out in the domestic edible oil sector, winning the ‘China Grain and Oil Influential Public Brand’ award for five consecutive years, with a brand value exceeding 10 billion yuan.

At Shangri-La Dialogue, Macron Warns of Superpower Tensions, Calls for New Bloc

France's President Emmanuel Macron gives the keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue Summit in Singapore on May 30, 2025. (Photo by Ludovic MARIN / AFP)

The Laotian Times/AFP’s Damon Wake and Francesco Fontemaggi – French President Emmanuel Macron on 30 May speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore urged Europe and Asia to build a new alliance to counter the growing power game between China, Russia and the United States in the region.

Defence chiefs and officials from around the world attend Asia’s leading annual defense and security conference. In recent years, the forum has served as a key indicator of US-China relations.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth addressed the conference on 31 May, following renewed tariff pressure on China from President Trump. 

He warned that the US is prepared to “fight and win” if deterrence fails, urging allies to increase defense spending amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea and Taiwan. Hegseth criticized China’s absence in the meeting and pledged to counter its influence.

China has not sent its defense minister to Shangri-La, and was instead represented by a senior officer from its People’s Liberation Army’s National Defense University.

Since 2019, Beijing has regularly sent its defense minister to the Shangri-La meet, occasions that offered rare opportunities to hold face-to-face talks with US counterparts.

Build a New Alliance

Macron’s speech came at the end of a tour of Vietnam, Indonesia and Singapore, which he used to present France as a reliable alternative for a region caught between Washington and Beijing.

Asian countries have found themselves torn between Washington’s tariff threats on one hand and Beijing, a major trading partner that has become increasingly forthright in territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

Tensions between the US and China have ramped up since Trump returned to office in January, off the back of an escalating trade standoff, intensified technological rivalry, and strategic military posturing.

Macron urged leaders at the conference to “build a positive new alliance between Europe and Asia, based on our common norms, on our common principles”.

“Our shared responsibility is to ensure with others that our countries are not collateral victims of the imbalances linked to the choices made by the superpowers,” he said.

Kill Our Credibility

Macron also weighed in on the conflict in Gaza, warning that abandoning the Palestinian enclave would kill the West’s credibility with the rest of the world.

“If we abandon Gaza, if we consider there is a free pass for Israel, even if we do condemn the terrorist attacks, we will kill our credibility,” he said.

His comments came as Israel accused him of undertaking a “crusade against the Jewish state” after he called for European countries to harden their stance on Israel if the humanitarian situation in Gaza did not improve.

Beyond the tensions in Gaza and Ukraine, the recent clashes between India and Pakistan will lurk in the shadows of the conference, which runs until 1 June. 

Beyond the West

A 22 April attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir triggered some of the worst cross-border clashes between the nuclear-armed neighbors in years, with at least 70 people killed.

Muslim-majority Kashmir is claimed in full by both countries. New Delhi accused Pakistan of backing the attack, a charge Islamabad denies.

Neither side has sent their defense ministers, instead dispatching senior military delegations. No meeting between the two sides has been announced.


© Agence France-Presse

ASCO 2025 Oral Presentation: Innovent Biologics Announces Updated Data of IBI363 (First-in-class PD-1/IL-2α -bias Bispecific Antibody Fusion Protein) from Phase 1 and 2 Clinical Studies on Immunotherapy-treated Advanced Malignant Melanoma

SAN FRANCISCO and SUZHOU, China, June 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Innovent Biologics, Inc (Suzhou) (HKEX: 01801), a world-class biopharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures and commercializes high-quality medicines for the treatment of oncology, cardiovascular and metabolic, autoimmune, ophthalmology and other major diseases, announces the data from Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical studies of IBI363, first-in-class PD-1/IL-2α-bias bispecific antibody fusion protein, for the treatment of  “immune cold tumor” —immunotherapy-pretreated melanoma  (acral and mucosal subtypes) were orally presented at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting. IBI363 has shown breakthrough efficacy in patients with heavily-treated melanoma subtypes – which are traditionally treatment-resistant “cold” tumors, and a pivotal registration trial for IBI363 is currently ongoing.

Innovent Biologics is conducting clinical studies in China, the United States, and Australia to explore the efficacy and safety of IBI363 for multiple tumor indications, including immune resistance, cold tumors, and front-line treatments. At this year’s ASCO meeting, IBI363 reported encouraging Phase 1/2 clinical data in the first three indications explored—non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), colorectal cancer (CRC), and melanoma—focusing on IO-resistant and cold tumors. The data comprehensively demonstrated the breakthrough clinical outcomes of IBI363 across these indications, from robust tumor response to long-term survival benefits. These findings provide strong support of the drug’s novel mechanism of action translating effectively into clinical outcomes, and imply its potential for broader clinical development, offering new hope in areas of immunotherapy where treatment options remain limited.

A Phase 1/2 clinical study of PD-1/IL-2α-bias bispecific antibody fusion protein (IBI363) in the treatment of advanced “cold” tumor subtypes (acral and mucosal) malignant melanoma

The data presented at this ASCO meeting are from two multi-center Phase 1 and 2 clinical studies (registration no.: NCT05460767, NCT06081920) designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of IBI363 monotherapy in the treatment of advanced melanoma. As of April 7, 2025, a total of 31 patients with unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic acral and mucosal melanoma who had previously received immunotherapy were enrolled and treated at the dosage of 1 mg/kg Q2W, and 64.5% of them had ≥2 lines of prior treatment.

Breakthrough efficacy of IBI363 monotherapy has been achieved in patients with “immune-cold” melanoma, with notable durable response and prolonged survival benefit:

  • In patients with at least one post-baseline tumor assessment (n=30), the confirmed objective response rate (cORR) was 23.3%, including 25.0% for mucosal type and 20.0% for acral type. The disease control rate (DCR) reached 76.7%, with 85.0% in mucosal type and 60.0% in acral type.
  • In patients treated with 1 mg/kg Q2W with confirmed responses (n=7), a durable response was observed with a median duration of response (DoR) of 14.0 months and events of 42.9%.
  • In patients treated with 1 mg/kg Q2W (n = 31) had a median progression-free survival (PFS) of 5.7 (2.7, 6.8) months, which was significantly longer than data from previous studies (PFS less than 3 months[1] ). The median follow-up time was 14.7 months, the median overall survival (OS) was 14.8 (9.9, NC) months, and the median OS of patients with mucosal subtype was 19.3 (9.9, NC) months. The overall 12-month OS rate was 61.5%.
  • In terms of safety, IBI363 was generally well tolerated. Among the subjects treated with 1 mg/kg Q2W (n = 31), the treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) with an incidence > 30% were arthralgia, rash, and hyperthyroidism, most of which were Grade 1 or 2. The overall incidence of Grade ≥ 3 TRAEs was 29.0%, and only 3.2% of subjects discontinued treatment due to TRAEs. Overall safety was manageable, and no new safety risks were found.

Acral+Mucosal

 (1mg/kg Q2W)

N=31

Confirmed ORR, % (95% CI)

23.3 (9.9, 42.3)

DCR, % (95% CI)

76.7 (57.7, 90.1)

Median PFS, months (95% CI)

5.7 (2.7, 6.8)

Median OS, months (95% CI)

14.8 (9.9, NC)

12-month OS rate, % (95% CI)

61.5 (39.8, 77.3)

Median OS follow-up, months

14.7

A pivotal Phase 2 registrational study of IBI363 in the treatment of advanced acral and mucosal malignant melanoma has been initiated

Innovent Biologics announced a trial in progress (TiP) . It is a randomized, open-label, multi-center Phase 2 study evaluating the efficacy and safety of IBI363 monotherapy compared to pembrolizumab (Keytruda®) in patients with unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic mucosal and acral melanoma who have not received prior systemic treatment. As the first pivotal registration trial of IBI363, this study is designed to directly compare IBI363 monotherapy with pembrolizumab in this patient population. A total of 180 patients are planned to be enrolled and randomized in a 1:1 ratio. The primary endpoint is progression-free survival (PFS) assessed by an Independent Review Committee (IRC).

The first patient was dosed in March 2025, marking a significant step in advancing IBI363’s development in melanoma. Additional studies exploring IBI363 in combination therapies across other cancer types are also ongoing.

Professor Guo Jun from Peking University Cancer Hospital and the Principal Investigator of Melanoma Studies on IBI363 said: “Although melanoma is a relatively rare malignant tumor in China, it has a high mortality rate, and its incidence continues to rise each year. Historically, patients with melanoma who have not received immunotherapy have had a median PFS of only about 3 months, which highlights a significant unmet clinical need. Notably, non-cutaneous melanoma (especially mucosal melanoma) accounts for a large proportion of cases in China and is considered a ‘cold tumor’, typically unresponsive to traditional immunotherapy. In these cases, the response rate to PD-1 monotherapy is often below 15%, offering limited clinical benefit. More effective treatments are urgently needed[2]. IBI363 addresses this challenge by transforming ‘cold tumors’ into ‘hot tumors’ through dual activation of the PD-1 and IL-2 pathways. The data presented in this study showed that IBI363 delivers significantly improved efficacy compared to previous studies in cold tumor subtypes and standard of care therapies, while maintaining a favorable safety profile. IBI363 has the potential to become a new standard in immunotherapy for malignant melanoma in China, providing a long-needed treatment option for patients with acral and mucosal malignant melanoma.”

Dr. Zhou Hui, Senior Vice President of Innovent Biologics, said: “At present, there is a huge unmet clinical need for the treatment of unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic mucosal and acral melanoma in China. Approved PD-1 therapies have not substantially improved first-line outcomes in melanoma, and the clinical benefits remain limited[3]. IBI363 is leading the evolution of next-generation immunotherapy. By leveraging a dual-mechanism of ‘PD-1 blockade + IL-2 directed activation’, IBI363 enhances T cell function and expands T cell populations to reshape the tumor immune microenvironment. IBI363 has shown excellent efficacy and safety results in the treatment of patients with immune-cold melanoma subtypes. A Phase 2 pivotal registrational study is currently underway. Positive results in patients with mucosal and acral melanoma are highly anticipated, offering hope for a more effective treatment option. Meanwhile, we are accelerating the global development of IBI363 across multiple tumor types, with the goal of making this innovative treatment accessible to patients around the world.”

About Melanoma

Melanoma is a malignant tumor that develops from melanocytes. While it accounts for only 3% of all skin cancers, it has the highest mortality rate and is the most prone to metastasis. In China, both the incidence and mortality rates of melanoma are rising annually. Based on tumor location, melanoma is classified into cutaneous, acral, and mucosal subtypes. Melanoma in Chinese populations differs significantly from that in Caucasian populations in Europe and the United States with regard to pathogenesis, biological behavior, histological morphology, treatment methods, and prognosis[4]. For patients with advanced cutaneous and acral melanoma with BRAF V600 mutation, a combination of BRAF and MEK inhibitors is the preferred treatment. For those without this mutation, chemotherapy combined with anti-angiogenic drugs is often considered as first-line treatment. Although pembrolizumab was approved in Sep. 2024 for first-line treatment of melanoma, the clinical benefit of PD-1 inhibitors in this setting remains modest. In second-line treatment, agents different from those used in the first line are generally preferred. For patients not previously treated with a PD-1 inhibitor, it can be considered as a second-line option. In advanced mucosal melanoma, median PFS for patients without prior immunotherapy is only about 3 months. Given the limited efficacy of current treatments for non-cutaneous melanomas, especially mucosal subtypes, which are more prevalent in China, there is an urgent need for more effective therapies.

About IBI363 (PD-1/IL-2 α-bias bispecific antibody fusion protein)

IBI363 is the world’s first PD-1/IL-2α-bias bispecific fusion protein independently developed by Innovent Biologics. It integrates two key functions: blockade of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway and activation of the IL-2 signaling pathway. The IL-2 arm of IBI363 has been engineered to retain affinity for IL-2 Rα while reducing binding to IL-2Rβ and IL-2Rγ, thereby minimizing toxicity. The PD-1 binding arm enables simultaneous PD-1 blockage and selective delivery of IL-2. This differential targeting strategy exploits the fact that newly activated tumor-specific T cells co-express PD-1 and IL-2α, which allows for more precise and efficient targeting and activation of this T cell subset. IBI363 not only showed good anti-tumor activity in a variety of tumor-bearing pharmacological models but also showed prominent anti-tumor efficacy in PD-1 resistance and metastasis models.

Driven by urgent clinical needs, Innovent Biologics is conducting clinical studies in China, the United States, and Australia to assess the efficacy and safety of IBI363 across multiple tumor types. The first pivotal registration trial of IBI363 has been initiated for the treatment of mucosal and acral melanoma without immunotherapy.

IBI363 has been granted two fast track designations by the FDA for the treatment of advanced squamous non-small cell lung cancer and melanoma, respectively. IBI363 has also been granted Two Breakthrough Therapy Designations by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for the treatment of advanced melanoma and squamous NSCLC.

About Innovent Biologics

Innovent is a leading biopharmaceutical company founded in 2011 with the mission to empower patients worldwide with affordable, high-quality biopharmaceuticals. The company discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes innovative medicines that target some of the most intractable diseases. Its pioneering therapies treat cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic, autoimmune and eye diseases. Innovent has launched 15 products in the market. It has 3 new drug applications under regulatory review, 4 assets in Phase III or pivotal clinical trials and 15 more molecules in early clinical stage. Innovent partners with over 30 global healthcare companies, including Eli Lilly, Sanofi, Incyte, Adimab, LG Chem and MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Guided by the motto, “Start with Integrity, Succeed through Action,” Innovent maintains the highest standard of industry practices and works collaboratively to advance the biopharmaceutical industry so that first-rate pharmaceutical drugs can become widely accessible. For more information, visit www.innoventbio.com, or follow Innovent on Facebook and LinkedIn.

For more information, please visit the company’s website: www.innoventbio.com or the company’s LinkedIn account.

Statement:

1. Innovent Biologics does not recommend the use of unapproved drugs/indications.

2. Ramucirumab injection (Ciranza®), selpercatinib capsules (Ritu®) and pirtobrutinib tablets (Capra®) were developed by Eli Lilly and Company

Forward-Looking Statement

The information in this press release may contain certain forward-looking statements. These statements are inherently risky and uncertain. The use of the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “predict,” “expect,” “intend” and similar expressions in connection with the Company are intended to identify forward-looking statements. The Company is under no obligation to continually update these predictive statements.

These forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s management’s existing views, assumptions, expectations, estimates, forecasts, and understandings of future matters at the time of the statements. These statements are not guarantees for future development and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, some of which are beyond the control of the Company and are difficult to predict. As a result, actual results may differ materially from those contained in such forward-looking statements as a result of future changes and developments in our business, competitive environment, political, economic, legal and social conditions.

The Company, its directors and employee agents have no obligation to (a) correct or update any forward-looking statements contained in this Website; and (b) any liability arising from the fact that any forward-looking statements cannot be realized or are rendered incorrect.

REFERENCES

[1].   Cui C, Yan X, Li B, et al.  Real-world clinical outcomes of anticancer treatments and prognostic factors in patients with advanced melanoma in China.  International Journal of Surgery Oncology.  2020; 5.  e97-e97.  doi:10.1097/IJ9.0000000000000097.

[2].   Cui C, Chen Y, Luo Z, et al.  Safety and efficacy of Pucotenlimab (HX008) – a humanized immunoglobulin G4 monoclonal antibody in patients with locally advanced or metastatic melanoma: a single-arm, multicenter, phase II study.  BMC Cancer.  2023;23(1):121.  Published 2023 Feb 6.  doi:10.1186/s12885-022-10473-y

[3].   Si L, Zhang X, Shu Y, et al.  A Phase Ib Study of Pembrolizumab as Second-Line Therapy for Chinese Patients With Advanced or Metastatic Melanoma (KEYNOTE-151).Transl Oncol.  2019;12(6):828-835.  doi:10.1016/j.tranon.2019.02.007

[4].   Diagnostic and Therapeutic Guidelines for Melanoma (2022 Edition)

 

Zeekr Group Announces May 2025 Delivery Update

HANGZHOU, China, June 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ZEEKR Intelligent Technology Holding Limited (“Zeekr Group” or the “Company”) (NYSE: ZK), the world’s leading premium new energy vehicle group, today announced its delivery results for May 2025.

In May, Zeekr Group delivered a total of 46,538 vehicles across its Zeekr and Lynk & Co brands, reflecting a 15.2% year-over-year growth and 12.6% increase compared to the previous month. This accomplishment was realized thanks to the trust and support of nearly 1.95 million users. In particular, the Zeekr brand delivered 18,908 vehicles, while Lynk & Co delivered 27,630 vehicles.

About Zeekr Group

Zeekr Group, headquartered in Zhejiang, China, is the world’s leading premium new energy vehicle group from Geely Holding Group. With two brands, Lynk & Co and Zeekr, Zeekr Group aims to create a fully integrated user ecosystem with innovation as a standard. Utilizing its state-of-the-art facilities and world-class expertise, Zeekr Group is developing its own software systems, e-powertrain and electric vehicle supply chain. Zeekr Group’s values are equality, diversity, and sustainability. Its ambition is to become a true global new energy mobility solution provider.

For more information, please visit https://ir.zeekrgroup.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “future,” “target,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to,” or other similar expressions. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties or factors is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

Investor Relations Contact

In China:

ZEEKR Intelligent Technology Holding Limited
Investor Relations
Email: ir@zeekrlife.com 

Piacente Financial Communications
Tel: +86-10-6508-0677
Email: Zeekr@thepiacentegroup.com 

In the United States:

Piacente Financial Communications
Brandi Piacente
Tel: +1-212-481-2050
Email: Zeekr@thepiacentegroup.com 

Media Contact

Email: Globalcomms@zeekrgroup.com 

Breakthrough Clinical Data for LBL-024 in First-Line Treatment of Advanced EP-NEC Unveiled at 2025 ASCO Oral Session

NANJING, China, May 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Nanjing Leads Biolabs Co., Ltd. (“Leads Biolabs”) today announced the presentation of groundbreaking clinical data from a multicenter phase Ib/II clinical trial evaluating LBL-024, an anti-PD-L1/4-1BB bispecific antibody, in combination with etoposide plus platinum-based chemotherapy for treatment-naive patients with advanced extrapulmonary neuroendocrine carcinoma (EP-NEC). The results were featured in an oral session at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting.

ASCO is recognized as the world’s most prestigious oncology conference, serving as a global stage for unveiling transformative scientific and clinical advancements. The Oral Sessions are highly competitive, served for studies demonstrating significant clinical relevance or scientific innovation. In 2025, ASCO received a record-breaking 7,775 abstract submissions, with 32 Chinese-led studies selected for oral presentation – among them, the LBL-024 trial (NCT06157827).

The study, led by Professor Shen Lin of Peking University Cancer Hospital and conducted across multiple clinical centers, evaluates the efficacy and safety of LBL-024 combined with etoposide plus platinum-based chemotherapy as a first-line treatment for advanced EP-NEC.

Robust Anti-Tumor Activity Observed with LBL-024 Plus Chemotherapy

  • In 52 efficacy-evaluable patients, the overall response rate (ORR) across all dose levels was 75.0% and the disease control rate (DCR) was 92.3%, significantly outperforming historical ORR data (30%-55%) with chemotherapy alone.
  • The 15 mg/kg in dose optimization demonstrated the strongest anti-tumor activity, achieving an ORR of 83.3% and a DCR of 100%.
  • 57.7% (30/52) of the patients experienced >50% tumor shrinkage.
  • As of April 15th, 2025, with a median follow-up of 8.2 months, progression-free survival (PFS) data remains immature, but trends indicate promising durability across all the dose groups.
  • In the phase Ib dose escalation stage, no dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) were observed. Most treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were Grade 1–2 and manageable, primarily associated with chemotherapy, including hematologic toxicity and nausea. No unexpected safety signals were identified. 

Leadership Perspectives

Dr. Charles Cai, Chief Medical Officer of Leads Biolabs, stated:” We are thrilled to share these exciting clinical data, which strongly support the advancement of LBL-024 into a pivotal phase III trial as a first-line treatment for EP-NEC. Our strategy prioritizes efficient development through single-arm registrational trial in underserved indications, while also maximizing value through broad indication expansion. LBL-024 received regulatory clearance in April 2024 to initiate a single-arm pivotal trial in China, marking the first 4-1BB targeted agent globally to reach this stage. With its expanded use now demonstrated in first-line settings and active studies in cancers such as SCLC and NSCLC, LBL-024 is poised to offer promising transformative therapeutic options for more cancer patients worldwide.”

Dr. Xiaoqiang Kang, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Leads Biolabs, added, “It is deeply encouraging to see LBL-024 featured consecutively in ASCO oral presentations. From target selection to molecular design, our R&D approach has focused on differentiated innovation to address pressing clinical challenges. The success of LBL-024 reflects our commitment to pioneering innovation at the source—breaking free from homogeneity to deliver genuinely impactful therapies. We remain dedicated to addressing unmet needs, advancing breakthrough therapeutics, and improving outcomes for patients across the globe.”

About LBL-024

LBL-024 is a potential first-in-class bispecific antibody simultaneously targeting PD-L1 and the co-stimulatory receptor 4-1BB. It is the first 4-1BB-targeting bispecific antibody globally to reach the single arm pivotal trial stage as a monotherapy and holds promise to become the first approved treatment specifically for extrapulmonary neuroendocrine carcinoma (EP-NEC), a malignancy with significant unmet medical need.

Developed using Leads Biolabs’ proprietary X-Body™ bispecific platform, LBL-024 features a 2:2 format with two binding domains each for PD-L1 and 4-1BB, and an optimized affinity ratio. This design allows LBL-024 to both reverse PD-L1–mediated immune suppression and selectively enhance T cell activation, resulting in potent, synergistic anti-tumor effects.

In Phase I/II clinical trials in China, LBL-024 has demonstrated promising efficacy and a favorable safety profile in patients with advanced EP-NEC, both as monotherapy and in combination with chemotherapy. The lack of a standard of care in EP-NEC supports the pursuit of accelerated approval through a single-arm pivotal study.

In recognition of its clinical potential, LBL-024 received Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD) from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) in China (October 2024), and Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for neuroendocrine carcinoma (November 2024).

Beyond NEC, LBL-024 has shown encouraging early activity in other tumor types, including small cell lung cancer (SCLC), ovarian cancer (OC), biliary tract cancer (BTC), and with strong potential for expansion into broader indications such as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and gastric cancer (GC).

About Leads Biolabs

Founded in 2012, Leads Biolabs is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of innovative therapies to address underserved medical needs in oncology, autoimmune, and other severe diseases both in China and globally.

We are a front-runner in next-generation immuno-oncology treatments with a differentiated pipeline of 12 innovative drug candidates, including six clinical-stage drug candidates, of which four lead products are among the top-tier clinically advanced candidates globally.

We adopt a science-driven R&D approach and have successfully established comprehensive R&D capabilities spanning antibody discovery and engineering, in vivo and in vitro efficacy evaluation, as well as druggability assessment. We have also developed multiple proprietary technology platforms, including LeadsBodyTM platform (a CD3 T-cell engager platform), X-bodyTM platform (a 4-1BB engager platform), which serve as the cornerstone for our continued innovation and have been validated by the clinical outcomes of our bispecific antibody portfolios.

We have established integrated capabilities across early discovery, translational medicine, clinical development, CMC and business development. The innovative nature and competitive strengths of our drug candidates, coupled with our global perspectives, proactive strategy, and efficient clinical validation, have made us an attractive partner for leading industry players and venture capitals. For more information, please visit https://en.leadsbiolabs.com/

 

LINKIN PARK ROCK THE UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL KICK OFF SHOW PRESENTED BY PEPSI®

MILLIONS OF FANS FROM ACROSS THE WORLD TUNED IN TO WATCH THE ICONIC ROCK BAND’S UNMISSABLE PERFORMANCE AHEAD OF THE BIGGEST GAME IN CLUB FOOTBALL

MUNICH, June 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — #PEPSIKICKOFFSHOW – Global superstars LINKIN PARK delivered an exceptional headline performance at the Munich Football Arena for this year’s UEFA Champions League Final Kick Off Show presented by Pepsi. One of the world’s most iconic rock bands performed live, just minutes before the biggest match in European club football, with the eagerly awaited show providing an unforgettable experience for the thousands in the stadium and the millions watching around the globe.

LINKIN PARK ROCK THE UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL KICK OFF SHOW PRESENTED BY PEPSI
LINKIN PARK ROCK THE UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL KICK OFF SHOW PRESENTED BY PEPSI

The UEFA Champions League Final Kick Off Show presented by Pepsi took place in front of a sold-out crowd ahead of the epic encounter between Paris Saint-German and FC Internazionale Milano, with LINKIN PARK entertaining fans with an exhilarating performance, featuring fan favourite tracks, an iconic stage and world-class special effects.

LINKIN PARK recently made a triumphant return to the spotlight with the release of FROM ZERO, their first new music in seven years. The album hit the top of the charts across the globe and features #1 smashes “Heavy Is The Crown” and “The Emptiness Machine,” which surged as the biggest rock song of 2024 with over 250 million streams. Notably, as reported by Billboard, LINKIN PARK was the one-and-only rock band to cross over 2 Billion yearly streams in 2024. 

Now, the band has taken its brand-new era to new heights by uniting football and music fans with a mesmerising performance featuring a setlist representing the best of their legacy, past and present. Throughout the performance LINKIN PARK gave a typically energetic performance of iconic hits including “In The End” and “Numb”, as well as “Heavy Is The Crown” and “The Emptiness Machine” from their new FROM ZERO (Deluxe Edition) album, which launched on 16th May. Fans can catch LINKIN PARK on their From Zero World Tour now, with all dates and remaining tickets available at linkinpark.com/tour

The setlist also featured a segment of the track LINKIN PARK recorded to mark the official announcement in April, blending the band’s iconic sound with the culture of European football. Incorporating sounds inspired by UEFA Champions League football – the strike of leather, the whistle of a free kick, the sounds of the most passionate fans in the world – the segment was a direct nod to football fans in the stadium and around the world.

LINKIN PARK’s standout performance combined masked performers in flowing capes, dynamic flag choreography, and cutting-edge SFX to create a visually striking blend of music, movement, and design.

With historically deep roots in sport and music, Pepsi is proud to present the UEFA Champions League Final Kick Off Show each year by merging the worlds of football and music together to create one night of epic entertainment. The momentous event continues to showcase the most iconic artists and unites football and music fans alike through one compelling spectacle, embodying Pepsi’s ‘Thirsty For More’ global platform.

Fans are encouraged to stay in-the-know by following Pepsi on Instagram,  X (formally Twitter), and Facebook.

#PEPSIKICKOFFSHOW

LINKIN PARK ROCK THE UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL KICK OFF SHOW PRESENTED BY PEPSI
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Fall of Mongolian coalition government could lead to severe economic downturn

  • Mongolia faces a crunch parliamentary vote on Monday which could lead to fall of coalition government
  • New analysis from Mongolian Economic Development Board indicates this could lead to a sharp fall in national income and foreign direct investment (FDI), as well as spiralling inflation
  • Political instability will jeopardise economic progress achieved in the last few years

ULAANBAATAR, Mongolia, June 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As Mongolia’s parliament prepares to vote on Monday on whether the country’s coalition government should remain in office, new economic analysis warns that the demise of the government could see the size of Mongolia’s economy contract by over 20% within six months, and FDI fall by almost 40% year-on-year.

Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene called on Wednesday for members of the Great State Khural to decide on whether the coalition government, which has been in place since last June’s parliamentary elections, should remain as a way of ending recent political instability. The Prime Minister is due to address the Khural on Monday ahead of a ‘confidence vote’ – likely to be deemed one of the most important moments in Mongolia’s political history since becoming a democracy in the early 1990s.

As the vote approaches, new economic data – which can be viewed in full here – produced by Mongolia’s Economic Development Board warns of the scale of the economic hit Mongolia could face, namely:

  • A 22% reduction in Gross National Income within six months
  • A 12.2% increase in inflation within a year
  • Year-on-year unemployment rising to 2.5%
  • The Mongolian Tugrik depreciating against the US Dollar by 17.9% by the end of 2025
  • An 18-point year-on-year decrease in Mongolia’s Political Stability Index

These forecasts are in line with the experiences of other countries where political instability has had a negative impact on the economy, including following the fall of a coalition government:

  • According to data from the World Bank and other key sources, the coalition breakdown in Estonia caused FDI to tumble from 7.54% in 2021, to 0.74% in 2024, and its economic growth to stall from 7.3% in 2021, to -0.9% in 2024
  • An international study analysing data from up to 169 countries between 1960 and 2004 has concluded that high levels of political instability are associated with lower GDP per capita growth, particularly due to declining productivity growth and reduced accumulation of physical and human capital

Commenting, Dr Batnasan B., Professor at the Business School of the National University of Mongolia and Member of the Economic Development Board, said:

The latest data clearly highlights the potential economic consequences of a collapse in Mongolia’s coalition government: a sharp economic downturn, runaway inflation, and a rise in unemployment.

“It is entirely appropriate that elected representatives decide who governs the country. But it is equally important that such decisions are made with full access to the facts and a clear understanding of the potential risks.

“The Economic Development Board’s analysis—combined with lessons from other countries that have faced similar circumstances—presents a compelling warning: all the hard-won economic progress Mongolia has achieved in recent years could be jeopardized if Monday’s vote results in increased political instability.”

This new analysis, as well as precedent from around the world, clearly shows the magnitude of the decision to be taken by lawmakers on Monday, and the jeopardy to the significant economic progress Mongolia has made since the COVID-19 pandemic, including adding $9 billion USD to its economy and increasing GDP per capita by an additional $2,400.

NOTES

Economic Development Board of Mongolia: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574363563476

Full economic analysis available here: https://nrpa.gov.mn/mn/zasgiyn-gazryn-togtvorguy-baydal

From Declaration to Action: Advancing Global Graft Fight under IAACA Steer

HONG KONG, June 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In May last year, the International Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities (IAACA), a 180-member-strong international anti-corruption organization currently headed by Danny Woo Ying-ming, Commissioner of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) of Hong Kong, China adopted the “Hong Kong Declaration on Strengthening International Cooperation in Preventing and Fighting Corruption” (the Declaration).

The Declaration outlines four key areas in which anti-corruption agencies (ACAs) are encouraged to strengthen their efforts: international collaboration, capacity building, public engagement as well as research and development. Over the past year, ACAs around the world has significantly advanced their efforts in the aforesaid areas.

At the IAACA Executive Committee meeting chaired by the ICAC in May this year, IAACA Executive Committee members updated each other on their respective accomplishments since the adoption of the Declaration.

“The first anniversary of the Declaration is a pivotal milestone which underscores the collective commitment of IAACA members. Members’ achievements and contributions highlight the significant strides made in combating and preventing corruption globally since the adoption of the Hong Kong Declaration,” Hong Kong ICAC Commissioner and IAACA President Danny Woo Ying-ming said.

In the past year, many ACAs have strengthened cooperation in criminal matters such as assisting other jurisdictions in preventing and detecting the transfer of corruption proceeds, recovering illicit assets, and denying safe havens to fugitives. Individual ACAs also entered into memoranda of understanding with various counterparts to enhance anti-corruption cooperation for investigations, prosecutions, etc. ICAC, for example, has signed MOUs with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and anti-corruption agencies from seven countries.

Another effective initiative for international collaboration was the strong partnership and active participation in global international organisations and platforms. Beyond IAACA, ACAs have worked closely together through initiatives such as the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities (GlobE Network), ASEAN Parties Against Corruption, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, European Contact-Point Network against Corruption, G20 Anti-Corruption Working Group, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, etc. During the year, ACAs attended various events hosted by these international organisations around the world and took the opportunities to exchange graft-fighting knowledge, experience and insights.

Capacity building is another pillar of the Declaration. It calls on ACAs to assist other jurisdictions to enhance anti-corruption capacity through trainings, exchanges, workshops as well as partnership projects. In this aspect, the Hong Kong ICAC launched the Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption in 2024 and conducted over 30 international training programmes, benefitting more than 2,600 participants from over 70 countries. The anti-corruption academies in the Special Investigating Unit of South Africa, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission of Malaysia and the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority of Saudi Arabia also provided training programmes to assist other jurisdictions in enhancing anti-corruption capacities.

ACAs, under the Hong Kong Declaration, have also implemented diverse strategies to engage the society in fighting corruption, enhance public awareness and promote workplace integrity. Different awareness-raising campaigns organized by ACAs through social media publicity, online activities, school campaigns, large-scale anti-corruption events for citizens had effectively encouraged a culture of integrity and legality. In 2024, marking its 50th anniversary, ICAC hosted community events, unveiled Café “1974”, renovated its exhibition hall with interactive exhibits, and conducted multimedia campaigns that amassed 27 million online views. The Anti-Corruption Bureau of Brunei Darussalam has trained public officers as anti-corruption ambassadors to educate colleagues and provide guidance. The Corruption Practices Investigation Bureau of Singapore has developed teaching kits and books for teenagers, and launched the Anti-Corruption Badge Programme for uniformed groups. The Financial Crimes Commission of Mauritius has also introduced the secondary school campaign to encourage youth engagement in financial crime prevention.

The Hong Kong Declaration also advocates the development of methodologies and indicators to measure corruption risks and trends. For example, the National Transparency Authority of Greece conducted a nationwide public opinion survey to collect qualitative and quantitative insights on corruption experiences, informing evidence-based policy decisions. Similarly, the Integrity Authority of Hungary is developing a methodology to measure corruption among the Hungarian population. In Italy, the National Anti-Corruption Authority has developed 70 risk indicators and is refining its ability to predict potential corruption by integrating statistical-econometric models and machine-learning techniques and extending the system to other databases. In addition, to strengthen investigative and preventive measures, ACAs had integrated advanced technology, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain, in their initiatives. In Hong Kong, ICAC has developed AI-powered tools to assist officers in formulating corruption prevention advice based on corruption prevention reports, consultations, and publications. These tools also provide real-time guidance to the public and answer inquiries about ICAC and anti-corruption laws. Countries such as Italy, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia had also established digital systems for public procurement and contract management.

“Efforts by IAACA members have not only reinforced their collective commitment but also facilitated the exchange of valuable experiences and best practices across diverse regions and organizations. Those collaborative initiatives align with the Hong Kong Declaration and are essential for ensuring the long-term effectiveness of anti-corruption measures, ultimately cultivating a global culture of integrity and good governance,” Mr Woo said.