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CGTN AMERICA & CCTV UN: Commemoration of 55th Anniversary of Ping-Pong Diplomacy Held in Beijing

WASHINGTON, April 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CGTN America & CCTV UN releases “Commemoration of 55th Anniversary of Ping-Pong Diplomacy Held in Beijing”

(This material is distributed by MediaLinks TV, LLC on behalf of CCTV. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.)

A commemorative event marking the 55th anniversary of China-US Ping-Pong Diplomacy was held on Friday at the Capital Indoor Stadium in Beijing.

The commemoration was jointly hosted by the General Administration of Sport of China, China Media Group (CMG) and the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries.

More than 500 participants attended the event, including representatives from government agencies, international organizations, the sports and media sectors, as well as youth delegates from both countries.

CMG President Shen Haixiong emphasized that CMG remains committed to bringing people from China and the US closer through exchanges and cooperation, and to advancing mutual learning. At a new starting point as China embarks on the next Five-Year Plan period, Shen added that CMG stands ready to work with all sectors to carry forward the spirit of “Ping-Pong Diplomacy” and contribute to building a community with a shared future for humanity.

Jan Carol Berris, vice president of the National Committee on United States-China Relations, who was involved in the Ping-Pong exchanges 55 years ago, said she hopes the spirit of mutual respect and friendly engagement embodied in “Ping-Pong Diplomacy” will help foster a strong, stable and respectful bilateral relationship that serves the interests of people from both countries and contributes to global peace and development.

Petra Erika Gummesson Soerling, president of the International Table Tennis Federation, described “Ping-Pong Diplomacy” as a landmark in the history of table tennis, hoping that its spirit will be carried forward to strengthen cross-border friendship.

During the event, former table tennis players Liang Geliang, Zheng Minzhi, Connie Mae Sweeris and Judy Louise Hoarfrost shared their memories of the historic ping-pong journey that bridged China-US relations more than half a century ago.

CMG’s documentary, “The Silver Ball: A Journey Beyond,” was officially released at the event, tracing how sports can foster people-to-people exchanges between China and the US.

The ceremony also marked the launch of a series of China-US youth sports exchange activities for 2026.

Contact : Zeng
Distribution@cgtnamerica.com

CICPE 2026 Sanya Boat Festival: Core Highlights Unveiled

SANYA, China, April 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — From April 15 to 18, the CICPE 2026 Sanya Boat Festival will be held at the Sanya International Yacht Center, co-organized by Shanghai UBM Sinoexpo International Exhibition Co., Ltd. With the theme “Window of China, Voyage to Future”, the event focuses on technological export, international connectivity, and transaction implementation, aiming to become a global showcase for Chinese yacht brands and a landmark Asia-Pacific yacht exhibition.

Highlight 1: Three-Zone Synergy & Immersive Experience

The main venue covers 18,000 sqm of land and 148,800 sqm of water, featuring six specialized zones including Chinese Boat Manufacturing Export, Green Boat Innovation, and “Yacht +” Lifestyle Showcase. Collaborating with Sanya Visun Royal Yacht Club (sailing race experiences) and Serenity Marina Sanya (yacht sea-outing experiences), it forms a “Yacht Center + Visun Royal Yacht Club + Serenity Marina ” three-zone synergy model.

The festival integrates “Exhibition + Competition + Conference + Gathering + Awards”, offering immersive scenarios like “Yacht + Cuisine, Lure Fishing”. Shuttle buses connect visitors to duty-free areas, enhancing “Exhibition + Consumption” integration and commercial conversion.

Highlight 2: Record-Breaking Premieres

Premieres remain a key attraction, with 24 debut models confirmed—exceeding the initial 15. This includes 15 yachts (9 global premieres by domestic brands such as Huanzhu and AYANA, 6 domestic premieres by international brands like Britain’s PRINCESS S72) and 9 water sports products (5 global premieres by domestic brands, 4 domestic premieres by Canadian brands).

The exhibition gathers leading global and domestic manufacturers: France’s Lagoon, Italy’s Ferretti, Germany’s Bavaria, the U.S.’ Sea Ray, and domestic giants like SeaToWorld. A total of 200 yachts are on display, including 5 super yachts over 80 feet, alongside over 90 supporting enterprises.

Highlight 3: Industrial Promotion & Policy Advantages

Authoritative releases include the 2025 China Yacht Industry Development Report by the Cruise, Yacht & Boat Branch of China Tourism Automobile and Vessel Association, providing guidance for high-quality development. The 3rd Hainan International Yacht Design Competition awards ceremony will also be held, collecting 110 entries (including 11 overseas works from 7 countries) — a record high, reflecting its international influence.

Leveraging Hainan Free Trade Port policies, the festival hosts supporting events: Inaugural Meeting of Sanya Yacht Import and Export Trade Association, Sino-Foreign Yacht Industry Seminar, and business matchmaking sessions, fostering industry collaboration and transaction conversion.

 

Vingroup Launches Hanoi – Quang Ninh High-Speed Railway Project


QUANG NINH, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 April 2026 – The People’s Committee of Quang Ninh Province, in coordination with Vingroup and the People’s Committees of Hanoi, Hai Phong, and Bac Ninh, today officially launches the Hanoi – Quang Ninh high-speed railway project, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2028. With a maximum design speed of up to 350 km/h, the project will shorten travel time between the two localities by five to seven times, to approximately 23 minutes.

Rendering of Ha Long terminal station at Vinhomes Global Gate Ha Long urban area (Quang Ninh).
Rendering of Ha Long terminal station at Vinhomes Global Gate Ha Long urban area (Quang Ninh).

The launch ceremony for the Hanoi – Quang Ninh high-speed railway project is part of a series of activities celebrating the successful election of deputies to the 16th National Assembly and People’s Councils at all levels for the 2026-2031 term, aimed at creating momentum for a new phase of development.

The event was attended by Mr. Le Minh Hung, Politburo Member and Prime Minister; Mr. Pham Minh Chinh, former Politburo Member and former Prime Minister; Mr. Pham Gia Tuc, Politburo Member and Standing Deputy Prime Minister; Mr. Nguyen Hoa Binh, former Politburo Member and former Standing Deputy Prime Minister; Mr. Luong Tam Quang, Politburo Member and Minister of Public Security; along with leaders of central ministries, agencies, and localities.

The Hanoi – Quang Ninh high-speed railway project is developed by VinSpeed High-Speed Railway Investment and Development Joint Stock Company, a member of Vingroup, with a total investment of over VND 147 trillion, equivalent to more than USD 5.6 billion, excluding land clearance costs.

The project spans four localities: Hanoi, Bac Ninh, Hai Phong, and Quang Ninh, with a total length of 120.2 km. It is designed as a double-track, standard-gauge (1,435 mm), fully electrified railway, with a maximum operating speed of up to 350 km/h. The section passing through Hanoi will operate at a maximum speed of 120 km/h. The project is expected to deploy the latest generation of high-speed trains, alongside world-class signaling, communications, and equipment systems supplied by Siemens Mobility (Germany), with a roadmap for technology transfer to VinSpeed during operations.

The starting point of the line will be at Co Loa Station, located within the Vietnam National Exhibition Center, Vinhomes Global Gate Hanoi urban area. The terminal station will be Ha Long Station, located within Globe Forest Park, Vinhomes Global Gate Ha Long, Quang Ninh. The route will include three intermediate stations at Gia Binh (Bac Ninh), Ninh Xa (Hai Phong), and Yen Tu (Quang Ninh), as well as one depot located at the Ha Long terminal station.

Prime Minister Le Minh Hung and delegates perform the project launch ceremony for the Hanoi – Quang Ninh high-speed railway project.
Prime Minister Le Minh Hung and delegates perform the project launch ceremony for the Hanoi – Quang Ninh high-speed railway project.

According to plan, the project is expected to be completed and enter commercial operation in 2028, reducing travel time from Hanoi to Quang Ninh by five to seven times, from over two hours to approximately 23 minutes.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Bui Van Khang, Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee and Chairman of the People’s Committee of Quang Ninh Province, stated: “The Hanoi – Quang Ninh high-speed railway is a mega-project that carries significant expectations. It demonstrates the capacity and strong commitment of the investor, and stands as clear evidence of the increasingly deep participation of the private sector in critical national infrastructure. We are committed to continuing close coordination with central ministries and the investor throughout project implementation; proactively addressing any arising challenges; and ensuring land clearance, resettlement, and all necessary conditions are in place for the project to be delivered on schedule and to the highest quality standards.”

As the first inter-regional high-speed railway project to be implemented in Vietnam, the Hanoi –Quang Ninh line is expected to create strong momentum for the Northern Key Economic Region, while marking a significant step toward a new era of accelerated development, contributing to the realization of the Party’s and Government’s determination to enhance national competitiveness.

Representing the investor, Mr. Nguyen Viet Quang, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Vingroup, shared: “Today’s launch ceremony for the Hanoi – Quang Ninh high-speed railway affirms Vingroup’s strong commitment to contributing to infrastructure development, steadily building a modern, internationally-standardized transport infrastructure system, thereby supporting socio-economic growth and improving the quality of life for the Vietnamese people.”

Mr. Michael Peter, Global CEO of Siemens Mobility, shared: “We are committed to bring to Vietnam the world’s most advanced, safest, and most efficient high-speed rail system with proven track record across the globe. Every day, our trains run around one million kilometers, three times the distance to the moon, with an unbeaten safety record. Each train is developed fully digitally, delivering maximum energy efficiency and a superior passenger experience. Siemens is committed to deliver a close and sustainable partnership with Vingroup, where we envision a true win-win partnership, including an extensive technology transfer program. We will build and service these trains together, creating a new railway ecosystem in Vietnam.”

The Hanoi – Quang Ninh high-speed railway is the second project undertaken by VinSpeed. In December 2025, VinSpeed officially broke ground of the Ben Thanh – Can Gio railway line in Ho Chi Minh City, which is also expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2028.

The consecutive rollout of two high-speed railway projects in both the northern and southern regions not only affirms VinSpeed’s strong execution capabilities, but also lays the foundation for the development of a multi-billion-dollar railway and supporting industries ecosystem, contributing to elevating Vietnam’s position and competitiveness on the global stage.

Hashtag: #Vingroup #VinSpeed

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

ATTACK SHARK Launches X11 ULTRA Carbon Fiber Gaming Mouse Ahead of 2nd Anniversary Sale

NEW YORK, April 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ATTACK SHARK, a gaming peripheral brand specializing in affordable, high-performance mechanical keyboards, gaming mice, and accessories, has put the spotlight on its newly launched flagship X11 ULTRA carbon fiber gaming mouse, alongside details of its upcoming 2nd anniversary sale, running from April 15 to 27 on its official website.

Positioned as an upgraded version of the brand’s best-selling X11 series, the X11 ULTRA features a full-body injection-molded carbon fiber design with a proprietary forged texture, delivering a distinctive look and enhanced durability. The mouse is powered by the latest Nordic 54L15 chipset, providing improved performance.

ATTACK SHARK Launches X11 ULTRA Carbon Fiber Gaming Mouse
ATTACK SHARK Launches X11 ULTRA Carbon Fiber Gaming Mouse

Additional highlights include a shark fin-shaped 8K receiver with integrated indicators for real-time status tracking (polling rate, battery, and signal). Its 24K gold-plated scroll wheel and side buttons further emphasize a focus on high-end precision and craftsmanship.

As part of the anniversary campaign, the X11 ULTRA will be available at 15% off, with prices starting from $93.49, giving users early access to the brand’s latest innovation.

The anniversary promotion will take place exclusively on the official ATTACK SHARK website at https://attackshark.com/.

The event will feature sitewide savings of up to 60% across a broad product range. Popular items such as the X3 mouse, X68 keyboard, X11 mouse, R5, and R11 ULTRA will be available at discounted prices. Customers purchasing bundle combinations will receive additional discounts along with a complimentary CM02 mousepad.

The campaign will also feature four rounds of giveaway events across social platforms. On April 18, all purchases made during the day will include a special anniversary gift. Additional exclusive discount codes will be released through the brand’s Discord community, offering further savings opportunities for engaged users.

The X11 ULTRA launch underscores ATTACK SHARK’s commitment to advanced materials, high performance, and user‑centric design, while its anniversary campaign deepens global community engagement and broadens access to premium gaming peripherals.

About ATTACK SHARK

ATTACK SHARK is a global gaming peripherals brand dedicated to delivering high-performance, player-focused devices. From esports-grade mice to advanced keyboards, the brand emphasizes precision, speed, and innovation, empowering gamers of all levels worldwide.

For more information, please visit https://attackshark.com/ or connect with the brand on Social Media and Discord. To place an order, please visit ATTACK SHARK Amazon Store for the US, UK, Europe, and Japan.

Thongloun Congratulates Myanmar’s Min Aung Hlaing on Presidency

Laos Sends Congratulations to Myanmar’s New President

Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith has congratulated Myanmar’s newly elected president Min Aung Hlaing, pledging to strengthen ties between the two countries.

In his message, Thongloun expressed confidence that the long-standing friendship between Vientiane and Naypyidaw will deepen. He said he stands ready to work closely with Min Aung Hlaing to deliver tangible benefits and support regional peace and stability.

Min Aung Hlaing, 69, secured a parliamentary vote on 3 April and took office on 10 April. His rise to the presidency comes five years after he removed Aung San Suu Kyi’s elected government in a military coup that triggered civil conflict in Myanmar and international sanctions.

Western governments and democracy groups rejected the election, calling it neither free nor fair. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations echoed these concerns and declined to send election observers after rights groups warned it would legitimize a flawed process.

Bilateral Ties Continue to Strengthen

Thongloun’s message comes as Laos and Myanmar expand cooperation. In February, both countries signed a five-year memorandum of understanding in Naypyidaw to strengthen cooperation and people-to-people ties for the 2026–2030 period.

Officials from both sides attended the signing, including representatives from the Lao National Assembly and Myanmar’s diplomatic institutions.

On the sidelines of the visit, the Lao delegation also met with Myanmar’s Foreign Affairs Minister U Than Swe, who stressed the importance of bilateral cooperation in advancing people-to-people diplomacy.

The two countries share a short but historically significant border in the north, and have maintained friendly ties through successive changes in government on both sides.

Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 opens in Bangkok

Five days of culture, music and water celebrations at Benchakitti Park reinforce UNESCO-recognised Songkran as a leading global festival

BANGKOK, April 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has officially opened the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok. Running until 15 April, the five-day event brings together cultural heritage, live entertainment and water celebrations at one of Thailand’s largest Songkran gatherings.

Mr. Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, presided over the opening ceremony of the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok, alongside Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, and senior public and private sector representatives, marking the start of nationwide celebrations showcasing Thailand’s cultural heritage and festive spirit.
Mr. Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, presided over the opening ceremony of the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok, alongside Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, and senior public and private sector representatives, marking the start of nationwide celebrations showcasing Thailand’s cultural heritage and festive spirit.

The opening ceremony on 11 April was attended by Mr. Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, alongside senior representatives from the public and private sectors.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 is a celebration designed for everyone — across generations, regions and the world. It brings together the very best of Thai culture and contemporary festivity, reinforcing Songkran’s standing as a truly global festival. With UNESCO’s recognition of Songkran in Thailand as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, we are proud to present an experience that is deeply rooted in tradition and boldly modern, further establishing Thailand as a world-class festival destination.”

Opening night features the Maha Songkran World Event parade at 18:30 Hrs. on the main stage, spotlighting this year’s Songkran deity, Nang Raksasdevi, portrayed by Opal Suchata Chuangsri, Miss World 2025.

The “Songkran 5 Regions” zone (from 11:00 to 22:00 Hrs. daily) presents Thailand’s regional diversity through traditional performances, local product showcases, activities and temple fair experiences, including sand pagoda building and Buddha image bathing. Dedicated areas for the elderly and children ensure accessibility for all ages, with over 100 stalls offering Thai food and products.

Leading Thai artists perform on the main stage (from 17:00 to 22:00 Hrs.), including Fool Step, Zani, Zeal, Kratae, Asia7, The Mousses, Lham Somphol, Ink Waruntorn, Monica, Playground, Palmy, Maiyarap, Clockwork Motionless, 4EVE, Bodyslam, Taitosmith, MEYOU, Getsunova, Tilly Birds and Joey Boy, alongside cultural and contemporary showcases.

Meanwhile, DJs will shake the water play zone and EDM stage (from 16:00 to 22:00 Hrs.) with performances by 4 TEN, Nuttrix, Joy Lila, Jay Schema, Gail Werner, Spacemonkey, 22Bullets, Patcha, Hanky, Dome, Hugo, Brynna, Roxy June, Max, Xillix and Notxerius.

Each evening concludes with a drone light display featuring more than 1,200 drones.

Safety and security are top priorities, supported by seamless teamwork among public agencies, including the Tourist Police Bureau, and event partners to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience for all. Attendees benefit from boosted on-site support, smart traffic flow, dedicated crowd guidance, helpful visitor hubs, and round-the-clock assistance throughout the venue.

Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 takes place from 11 to 15 April at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok. Admission is free. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport, with convenient access from BTS Asok station and MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre station, both within walking distance of the park.

For more information, contact the TAT Call Centre at 1672 Travel Buddy, or follow the Amazing Thailand and Thailand Festival Facebook pages.

Vientiane Deploys Hundreds of Police for New Year Road Safety

Traffic Jam at Patuxay Stupa
Traffic Jam at Patuxay Stupa. (Photo: Mimi Oulayvanh Sisounonth)

Vientiane’s traffic police are stepping up road safety measures for the Lao New Year week.

Hundreds of officers will be deployed across the capital as authorities look to bring accident numbers down after deadly past celebrations.

The Traffic Police Department will station 561 officers and 18 vehicles across 145 posts in Vientiane Capital from 12 to 18 April.

Officers will run alcohol breath tests on private drivers and passengers on transport vehicles. They will check vehicle speeds and make sure motorcycle riders and passengers wear helmets. For multi-wheel vehicles, officers will verify that drivers and passengers have their seatbelts on. Anyone found without one will receive a warning on the spot.

The authorities are also tasked with monitoring overcrowding on public transport vehicles and managing traffic flow across city and district roads throughout the holiday.

Smaller But Targeted

This year’s operation is smaller than the nationwide deployment in 2025, when authorities assigned 1,172 officers across 143 stations from 11 to 17 April.

This year, officials will focus specifically on Vientiane Capital, with support from specialized units.

Road safety improved during the 2025 Pi Mai Lao celebrations. Authorities recorded 169 accidents nationwide from 14 to 16 April, nearly half of the 316 cases reported in 2024. The crashes killed 15 people, down from 33 deaths during the same period last year.

While the toll remained significant, it marked a clear decline from 2024.

The deadliest day in 2025 was 14 April, when 62 accidents killed nine people and injured 97. Overspeeding, drunk driving, and improper lane changes remained the main causes in both years.

Vientiane Province, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane Capital recorded the highest number of fatalities.

Authorities now target these areas as key focus points for stricter enforcement this year.

Meet OlloNi — Redefining the cyber-pet, your low-burden cyber companion

NEW YORK, April 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On the occasion of International Pet Day this April 11, the discussion on companionship is embracing an entirely new perspective. As the population living alone continues to expand, the demand for pet companionship has been on a steady rise, with young people, seniors living alone, and children emerging as the groups with the most concentrated need for companionship. However, practical constraints are making it increasingly difficult to keep a pet, forcing many people who crave companionship to give up on adopting a pet. Adoption will always be the best choice for those ready to welcome a furry companion into their home. OlloBot recognizes that not everyone’s lifestyle is suited for pet ownership—and that’s perfectly fine. Cyber-pets, as a completely new category, is not intended to replace living pets, but rather to offer an alternative companionship option that better accommodates diverse lifestyles.

OlloNi——your low-burden cyber companion
OlloNi——your low-burden cyber companion

The core significance of International Pet Day lies in raising awareness of the importance of companionship. Whether it is a living pet or a cyber-pet, the essence is to provide people with emotional comfort and fill the void of companionship. This is precisely why we created OlloNi—your brand-new cyber companion, designed to fit into your life, rather than forcing you to adapt to it.

As the core carrier for a new breed of cyber-pets, OlloBot breaks through the functional limitations of traditional electronic pets by deeply integrating emotional companionship with precious memories to perfectly meet the core demand for companionship in modern households. At the 2026 CES, the ‘pet attributes’ of OlloBot were fully demonstrated. Many industry insiders at the event suggested that cyber-pet cafes/stores may emerge in the future, providing immersive companionship experiences for those unable to keep living pets. It is worth noting that this is also confirmed by the diversification trend in the pet market. In the past, pet stores were mostly dominated by cats and dogs, but today, exotic pet cafes and niche pet experience stores are now everywhere, this is exactly a reflection of people’s growing demand for diversified forms of companionship. The emergence of cyber-pet represents an extension and evolution of this trend.

Through its expressive eyes, lively body movements, and emotionally responsive voice, OlloBot accurately simulates the emotions of a living creature, appearing like a real pet with genuine feelings that can sense the user’s mood. It plays and interacts with children, filling the gap in parental companionship just like a family pet. With built-in camera and video capabilities, it captures joyful family moments, freezing these fleeting memories into exclusive images that preserve the warmth of home. All of this is the unique value of cyber-pet as a new category. It does not compete with live pets, but rather expands the boundaries of companionship in a completely new way, becoming a fresh alternative for those need companionship.

‘We’re not here to replace real pets, we’re just filling a long-overlooked gap. Adoption is wonderful for those who can, but we believe everyone deserves the joy of companionship, no matter your living situation,’ said Lyn, the founder of OlloBot. As a “raisable” electronic pet, OlloBot retains the companionship traits of traditional pets while breaking time and space constraints through technology, overcoming the limitations of conventional pets in many companionship scenarios. It requires no extensive time or care, yet stays close to family members at all times, capturing precious family moments and conveying emotional warmth. This is precisely the core advantage of cyber-pet” as a new category, and exactly the “Cyber-pet Companionship” brand image OlloBot aims to establish.

The International Pet Day has brought ‘companionship’ into the global spotlight. OlloBot perfectly integrates technology and companionship, redefining how modern families experience companionship. Looking ahead, OlloBot will remain committed to to its cyber-pet positioning, deepening its focus on home scenarios, and continue refining the product’s emotional interaction and lifelike presentation. This will enable more families to “raise” their very own cyber-pet, and together with pet lovers worldwide, embrace the life philosophy that ‘companionship is beauty’.