Entertainment

The 2024 World Internet Conference (WIC) Wuzhen Summit kicked off on Tuesday in Wuzhen, East China's Zhejiang Province, with representatives from high-tech companies and participants from China's digital sector praising the WIC as a critical platform to showcase China's technological outcomes, digital market prospects and openness.

This year's WIC Wuzhen Summit highlights the technological and industrial advances in AI, along with its effects on human society and the world economy, according to the event organizers. Representatives from over 30 countries and regions gathered at the four-day summit, which is themed "Embracing a People-Centered and AI-for-Good Digital Future - Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace."

"As the global competition in AI technology intensifies, Chinese AI companies are ramping up their efforts in independent innovation and we are already seeing positive outcomes," Wang Shijin, executive dean of the iFlytek AI research institute told the Global Times on Tuesday.

Wang stated that the company is committed to contributing to the development of the global internet through developing advanced AI-related products and vows to collaborate with various partners to create a more intelligent, open, and inclusive cyberspace. 

At the Light of Internet Expo, a side event of the 2024 WIC, Chinese companies such as Huawei, Baidu, Alibaba, Tencent and iFlytek, as well as applications for AI algorithms, AI generated-content products, the low-altitude economy, intelligent connected vehicles and cybersecurity are in the limelight. Foreign participants include US tech company Microsoft, IBM, Russia's leading cybersecurity company Kaspersky and Indian software company Infosys. The expo has attracted 665 domestic and foreign enterprises and institutions from 53 countries and regions. 

The exhibition hall features key milestones in the Chinese internet sector and notable technological innovations, highlighting China's remarkable advancement in the wave of global digitalization and the crucial contribution of the sector to driving global economic growth, analysts said. Attendees are invited to jointly explore the development trends of cutting-edge digital technology, such as humanoid robots, digital cultural and creative products and hydrogen-powered drones. More than 40 large language models and over 10 embodied AI robots were presented.

Unitree, a Hangzhou-based robotics startup, showcased its latest humanoid robot, Unitree G1, which can move at 2 meters per second. The robot can jump, walk at a top speed of over 7 kilometers per hour, and even climb stairs littered with construction debris. This kind of humanoid robot can be used in applications in daily life scenarios and will continue to lead industrial development in the future. 

"We have sold more than 100 such robots, priced from $16,000-90,000 each, offering an insight into the huge market potential for the full commercialization of humanoid robots," said Chen Xiyun, a marketing manager at Unitree.

Chen said that the swift advances in AI technology have led to major breakthroughs in the core technologies of humanoid robots. Notably, over 95 percent of the company's industrial chain integration is based on their own research and development.

China's digital industry has seen robust growth in recent years as it embarks on a tech-driven development path, promoting high-quality development in emerging sectors such as AI, AI-driven robots and smart driving, Pan Helin, a member of the Expert Committee for the Information and Communication Economy under the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, told the Global Times on Tuesday.

Over the past decade, China has undoubtedly been at the forefront of the global digitalization process. These efforts have not only significantly contributed to the development of the world's second-largest economy, but also fueled development dividends across the world. And these achievements hold considerable importance against the backdrop of ongoing uncertainties and a global economic slowdown, Pan said.

From 2012 to 2023, the scale of China's digital economy jumped from 11 trillion yuan ($1.51 trillion) to nearly 54 trillion yuan, with internet applications, the number of netizens and AI development leading the world, official data showed.

China and Brazil on Wednesday elevated their ties to a China-Brazil community with a shared future for a more just world and a more sustainable planet.

The remains of 43 Chinese People's Volunteers (CPV) martyrs who lost their lives during the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea will be returned to China from South Korea in late November, according to China's Ministry of Veterans Affairs.

This will mark the 11th repatriation of CPV martyrs' remains since the signing of a handover agreement between the two countries.

From 2014 to 2023, China and South Korea, in accordance with international laws and humanitarian principles, successfully completed 10 consecutive handovers involving the remains of 938 CPV martyrs in South Korea, along with related artifacts. Both sides have agreed to continue their cooperation in these efforts, according to Xinhua News Agency. 

The repatriation of CPV soldiers' remains from Korea has become a notable friendly event between China and South Korea, which even has significance for international peace, Lü Chao, an expert on the Korean Peninsula affairs at the Liaoning Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Friday.

From China's perspective, the Chinese people have never forgotten the immortal achievements and great spirit of sacrifice of the CPV soldiers. Their spirit of fighting for the defense of world peace will be forever etched in our hearts, and it is the common wish of all ethnic groups in China to have them back, Lü said.

Some 70 years ago, the CPV crossed the Yalu River to fight the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea in 1953. 

A total of 2.9 million CPV soldiers entered the battlefield, and 197,653 of them sacrificed their lives in the war. The names of the martyrs can be found on a memorial wall at the CPV martyrs' cemetery in Shenyang. 

At the beginning of this year, China's Ministry of Veterans Affairs released the latest results of the search for relatives of the CPV soldiers in South Korea, and the relatives of 10 martyrs were successfully found through DNA comparisons of the remains, People's Daily reported. 

In recent years, the Martyrs' Remains Search and Identification Center of the Ministry of Veterans Affairs has been engaged in the organization, identification, and analysis of relics. They have gradually released leads for locating the relatives of martyrs and mobilized various sectors of society to jointly search for the families of the martyrs.

Relying on the National Martyrs' Remains DNA Identification Laboratory, a national DNA database for martyrs' remains and a DNA database for martyrs' relatives have been established. This has helped to solve the challenges of DNA recognition for remains and developed key technologies related to complex kinship identification, successfully confirming the identities of 20 martyrs, as of January 2024, the People's Daily reported. 

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived here Thursday for a state visit to Peru and the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend the 31st APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Lima and pay a state visit to Peru from November 13 to 17 at the invitation of President of the Republic of Peru Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra, foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying announced on November 8. 

Recently, Global Times reporters Zhao Yusha and Bai Yunyi conducted an exclusive interview with the Peruvian Ambassador to China, Marco V. Balarezo, regarding China-Peru relations and APEC cooperation. 

In the interview, Balarezo highly praised China's important role and influence in the Latin American region, believing that Peru can serve as a "gateway" for China's cooperation with Latin America. In view of this, the Peruvian diplomat believes that the close cooperation between China and Peru in areas such as trade, investment and infrastructure, as well as the significant potential for collaboration in new energy and digital communication, can not only enhance connectivity between China and Peru but also provide valuable experience for the overall development of the region.

GT: How do you evaluate the current level of development in China-Peru relations? What significance does China-Peru cooperation hold for the Latin American region?

Balarezo: The current level of development in Peru-China relations is robust and multifaceted, reflecting a mature partnership grounded in frequent high-level exchanges, strong political dialogue and deep economic, commercial and cooperative initiatives. China has been Peru's largest trading partner for 10 consecutive years and, after Brazil, Peru is the largest destination of Chinese outbound investments in LAC, accounting for more than $30 billion in sectors such as mining, infrastructure and energy. 

This partnership not only boosts bilateral trade but also positions Peru as a strategic gateway for Chinese engagement across Latin America.

Peru-China cooperation carries significant implications for the entire Latin American region. It provides a model for how collaboration with China can help address key development challenges.

GT: There has been much discussion about China's presence in Latin America in recent years. How do you view China's expanding influence in the region in recent years? What does this mean for the region?

Balarezo: Chinese investments in infrastructure, mining, energy and manufacture, along with technology initiatives and the transfer of technical know-how, are addressing critical development needs across the region.

Furthermore, China's huge market allows LAC to increase their exports and with that job creation and the integration of SMEs in global supply chains.

GT: The Chancay Port, held and invested by Chinese companies, is expected to have an inauguration ceremony. How do you evaluate the impact the Chancay Port will have on Peru? There are voices suggesting that China may use the Chancay Port for military purposes or exert "economic coercion" on Peru. What is your response to this?

Balarezo: The Chancay Port is expected to officially open in November, following the inauguration ceremony to be attended by the presidents of both Peru and China. This collaboration, involving Cosco Shipping and Peruvian enterprise Volcán, marks an important milestone for bilateral relations between the two countries. 

As one of the largest infrastructure investments in South America, the Chancay Port will transform Peru's maritime routes and logistics by establishing direct connectivity with China and Asian markets, reducing transportation costs and enhancing the efficiency of trade flows across the Pacific. 

The port is expected to receive Triple-E vessels, making it the only one in South America capable of handling such large-scale cargo ships, which will significantly reduce the maritime journey time between Chancay and Shanghai by 10 to 12 days. 

Regarding concerns about potential military use or economic coercion, it is essential to emphasize that the Chancay Port is a private commercial project that must comply with Peruvian national law. It is impossible for the port to have dual-use purposes.

GT: What are your expectations for the deepening of China-Peru cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative? In high-tech fields such as new energy vehicles and communication technology, what potential is there for cooperation between the two countries?

Balarezo: China's expertise and resources provide Peru with opportunities to enhance its transportation networks, such as railways and port facilities, invest in renewable green energy projects like solar and wind farms, and advance technological innovation through collaboration in telecommunications and digital technological infrastructure, among other areas. These initiatives align with Peru's long-term goals for sustainable development and modernization. In high-tech fields, such as new energy vehicles (NEVs) and communication technology, there is substantial room for collaboration. 

China, being a global leader in NEV technology, offers Peru valuable opportunities for technology transfer and investments, such as establishing electric vehicle assembly facilities and charging infrastructure, which could help Peru promote sustainable and cleaner transportation systems and reduce its carbon footprint. 

Additionally, cooperation in communication technology could help bridge Peru's digital divide, particularly in rural areas, enabling better access to digital services and advancing Peru's digital transformation.

GT: In the context of multiple challenges facing the global economy, how can APEC economies better leverage collective strength to promote global economic recovery and sustainable development?

Balarezo: As the host of APEC 2024, with the support of China and other economies, Peru has been able to already approve by consensus 10 Ministerial Declarations and 5 political-technical Declarations on different important key issues, covering various fields such as food safety, the development of clean and low-carbon hydrogen roadmaps, just energy transition, and sustainable finance initiatives. 

Through all of these and other agreements that we expect to be approved, APEC economies can help lead the world toward a more inclusive and resilient recovery.

GT: How do you view the role of Global South countries in APEC? What significance does cooperation among emerging countries hold for the stability and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region?

Balarezo: The participation of developing countries in APEC ensures that diverse perspectives and unique challenges of emerging economies are addressed, particularly in areas like economic formalization, access to digital technologies and increasing participation in global value chains. 

The involvement of developing countries ensures that the APEC agenda is inclusive and reflects the needs of countries striving for economic inclusion and equitable growth. Working together, they can promote initiatives aimed to attend to their particular needs and domestic realities.

A recent scam in Kunming, Southwest China's Yunnan Province, involving a company that lured job applicants with promises of high-paying positions and free plastic surgeries as part of the recruitment process has been exposed.

A woman, surnamed Liu, discovered a job listing on a recruitment website in May offering a salary of 50,000 ($6,913) to 80,000 yuan per month, according to China Central Television (CCTV) on Saturday. Enticed by the appealing offer, she submitted her resume and attended the interview, but the interviewer ignored her resume and work experience, focusing exclusively on her appearance.

Liu said that the interviewer told her facial features were not attractive enough and suggested she make some adjustments, arguing that the role heavily relied on physical appearance. 

The person then referred Liu to a medical institution for plastic surgery, listing five procedures deemed necessary. The company also promised to cover the costs of the surgeries upfront and reimburse her afterward.

The five procedures cost 35,000 yuan, but the company claimed it would advance 10,000 yuan, requiring Liu to cover the remaining 25,000 yuan, which would also be reimbursed after she worked, Liu said, as reported by CCTV.

Upon entering the clinic, Liu said that the doctor did not inquire about her decision to undergo surgery. Instead, a loan of 25,000 yuan was processed without her consent. Despite her hesitation, she was rushed to the operating table without further consultation.

Liu was informed by the recruiter that she had to undergo pre-service training and could only complete the entry procedures upon passing. However, she found the training program inappropriate, as it involved informal services. When she decided to quit, the company refused to take responsibility for the financial arrangements.

A few days after the plastic surgery, Liu recognized the severity of her situation when she experienced pain, noticed her mouth had become slightly crooked, and her face remained swollen. When she sought help from the hospital, the staff dismissed her concerns, prompting her to report the incident to the police.

The Kunming police actually received four similar reports from May to mid-June. After investigation, the police discovered that all the complainants were female job seekers who had been referred to a medical institution for plastic surgery by the "recruiters." The police concluded that these incidents were likely not coincidental.

The police found out that the "recruiter" and the medical institutions are not a simple partnership, but a conspiracy in advance, to execute a coordinated fraud scheme. 

The police have escalated five medical dispute cases to criminal investigations. As the inquiry progressed, they uncovered the scam group's tactics, which centered on luring job seekers with promises of high salaries.

They also chose upscale hotels for interviews, creating a formal and high-end atmosphere that puts job seekers at ease. During this so-called training phase, they impose various harsh entry conditions, leading job seekers to believe that any decision to withdraw is their own fault, rather than recognizing they have been deceived, reducing the likelihood of victims reporting the scam to the police.

The police said that an agreement existed between the recruitment company and the medical institution, whereby the funds from the loan are effectively divided between the two entities.

Following further investigation, the police revealed the organizational structure of the criminal gang, which comprises 15 members. This includes a sales team, an interviewer, and personnel from the medical team. The group operated with a clear division of labor and effective collaboration, creating a comprehensive fraud operation.

Xi extends congratulations to Global South Media and Think Tank Forum

Andy Lau's concert in Taiwan was warmly received by local fans but faced criticism from “Taiwan independence” advocates. Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Zhu Fenglian on Wednesday noted that certain politicians from “green camp” in Taiwan have forgotten their roots, attempting to politicize and disrupt normal musical exchanges, which has been met with strong criticism. 

The song Lau performed, "Chinese," was composed by a musician from Taiwan, and with iconic lyrics that include, “Hand in hand, no division between you and me, moving forward with pride, let the world know we are all Chinese,” Zhu noted.

Zhu emphasized that people on both sides of the Taiwan Straits are "Chinese," are "Descendants of the Dragon," have a "Chinese Heart," speak "Chinese Language," and love "China in the Lights." "Love My China" is the dignity and glory of every Chinese son and daughter, Zhu said.

Zhu urged the Taiwan compatriots to embrace their shared cultural identity as Chinese, firmly oppose "Taiwan independence” separatists, and work together with mainland compatriots to promote the peaceful and integrated development of cross-Straits relations, and strive together for national rejuvenation.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force will celebrate its 75th anniversary on Monday, with the air force debuting some of its most advanced weapons, including the J-35A medium-sized stealth fighter, the HQ-19 surface-to-air missile weapon system and a new attack reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle at the biennial Airshow China in Zhuhai, South China's Guangdong Province.

Military expert Song Zhongping said the Chinese air force becomes a strategic power today with its series of advanced weapons, such as stealth fighter jets, large cargo aircraft, strategic bombers, early-warning aircraft, air defense systems and tanker aircraft. In the future, the air force might be able to have a new generation stealth strategic bomber as well. This means China will have a more comprehensive and powerful military strength to better safeguard its core interests, national security, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

J-35A, the super star of the air show this year, has attracted attention from world media and military enthusiasts that have made the trip to Zhuhai. With the official commissioning of the J-35A into the PLA Air Force, China becomes the world's second country to operate two types of stealth fighter jets, experts noted.
The heavy J-20 and the medium-sized J-35A can perform complementary roles in joint missions, Chinese military aviation expert Fu Qianshao told the Global Times. He noted that J-35A is likely to be less costly than J-20, so it can be produced in large numbers in a short period of time.

The PLA Air Force will bring 36 types of equipment for aerial flight demonstrations and ground static displays to showcase the development of its equipment in a comprehensive and close-up manner, the PLA Air Force announced on Tuesday at a press conference marking the 75th anniversary of its establishment and its participation in Airshow China 2024.

On the HQ-19, Fu said it is comparable to the US-made THAAD weapon system. The THAAD weapon system can intercept hostile ballistic missiles outside the atmosphere, and intercept targets at the upper levels of the atmosphere. The US relies on the Patriot air defense weapon system at the lower levels.

"The HQ-9B and HQ-19 have formed a similar system, capable of intercepting the middle and end of the missile in outer space, the upper atmosphere and the lower atmosphere. The official debut of the HQ-19 marked the construction of the PLA Air Force integrating air and space, both offensive and defensive, making significant achievements, and reaching a new level," Fu noted.

Apart from the new J-35A and HQ-19 stars, as well as a new attack reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle, the PLA Air Force also brought a series of aircrafts including fighter jets J-10C and J-16D EW, bomber H-6K, large cargo aircraft Y-20 and drones WZ-7 and WZ-10 to the air show.

One day ahead of its 75th birthday, the PLA Air Force released a video titled "For You" on Sunday to mark its achievements. According to the China Central Television military channel, the video released by the PLA Air Force shows the Y-20 tanker aircraft air refueling the early-warning aircraft KJ-500A. Chinese military expert Wang Mingzhi said the KJ-500A is a radar station in the air and also a hub of command chain, so the video proves that with the support from the Y-20 tanker aircraft, the combat capability of the early-warning air craft has been greatly improved.

The video also showed Y-20 cargo aircraft carrying a huge number of airborne troops to conduct an airborne missions at night. Wang said that this shows that, with the Y-20s, the PLA Air Force can now conduct massive airborne missions in all weather conditions.

Song told the Global Times on Sunday that "the PLA Air Force is a strategic air force that is armed with world-class advanced weapons, including stealth fighter jets J-20 and J-35A, strategic bomber H-6K, a series of early-warning air crafts such as KJ-2000 and KJ-500." He added that "we might be able to see a new generation stealth strategic bomber in the future. All these advancements make the PLA Air Force a powerful strength in the hand of China, able to deal with all external threats and safeguard its own national interests, especially its core interests."

The Russia-US relationship is for the two sovereign states to address, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, in response to a question on Russian President Putin expressing willingness to engage in dialogue with US President-elect Trump and saying Trump's statements on the Ukraine crisis are noteworthy. 

On the Ukraine crisis, Mao reiterated that China's stance remains consistent, supporting all efforts that contribute to a political resolution.

Putin on Thursday congratulated Donald Trump on his election victory and said what Trump has said during election campaign about the desire to restore relations with Russia and to bring about the end to the Ukrainian crisis deserves attention, CCTV reported. 

Putin made the remarks at the Valdai discussion club in the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi.

According to the Xinhua News Agency, Putin said on Thursday that he is ready to hold discussions with Trump.