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CGTN: Joint pursuit of modernization: China, Africa eye new chapter in building a community with a shared future

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BEIJING, Sept. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The 1,860-km-long Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) railway from Tanzania’s Dar es Salaam to New Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia serves as a reminder of the longstanding relationship between China and Tanzania.

Over its 48 years of operation, the railway has transported over 30 million tonnes of cargo and carried more than 40 million passengers, becoming a vital artery that ensures the economic operation and development of Tanzania, Zambia, and surrounding areas.

On Wednesday, leaders of the three countries jointly witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding on the revitalization project of the TAZARA railway, aiming to further improve the rail-sea intermodal transport network in East Africa.

In the new era, China has continued to bring new opportunities to African countries and remained committed to the overall direction of mutual trust, mutual benefit, mutual learning and mutual assistance in growing China–Africa relations.

Delivering a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) on Thursday, Chinese President Xi Jinping hailed that China and Africa are getting stronger and more resilient together, delivering tangible benefits to Chinese and Africans, and setting a stellar example of a new type of international relations.

Xi announced that bilateral relations between China and all African countries having diplomatic ties with China are elevated to the level of strategic relations and that the overall characterization of China–Africa relations is elevated to an all-weather China–Africa community with a shared future for the new era.

Flourishing China–Africa cooperation

Since its establishment in 2000, the FOCAC has continuously promoted the leap-forward development of China–Africa relations, setting a prime example for South-South cooperation and international cooperation with Africa.

Over the past 24 years, China–Africa practical cooperation has yielded fruitful results, and exchanges in various fields have been unprecedentedly active. 

China–Africa trade volume has increased from $10.5 billion in 2000 to $282.1 billion in 2023, an increase of nearly 26 times. As of the end of 2023, China’s direct investment stock in Africa had exceeded $40 billion.

Meanwhile, the two sides have cooperated to build and upgrade nearly 100,000 kilometers of roads, more than 10,000 kilometers of railways, nearly a thousand bridges and a hundred ports. Fifty-two African countries and the African Union Commission signed documents with China on the Belt and Road cooperation.

With the help of China, the building of several roads, bridges, and ports has promoted connectivity on the African continent. For instance, the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway has significantly reduced transportation costs and travel times, fostering trade and commerce. The Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway connects landlocked Ethiopia to the port of Djibouti, enabling greater access to international markets.

In a bid to deepen China–Africa cooperation and spearhead the Global South modernization, Xi said China stands ready to work with Africa to implement ten partnership action plans in the next three years, covering the areas of mutual learning among civilizations, trade prosperity, industrial chain cooperation, connectivity, development cooperation, health, agriculture and livelihood, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, green development, and common security.

China will expand market access for African agricultural products, push forward the pilot zone for in-depth China–Africa economic and trade cooperation, and carry out 30 infrastructure connectivity projects in Africa, he said.

He added that China will send 2,000 medical personnel to Africa, launch 20 programs on health facilities and malaria treatment, and send 500 agricultural experts to strengthen health and agricultural capacities in African countries.

A shared path toward modernization

In the new era, China and Africa are committed to building a closer community with a shared future and becoming fellow travelers in exploring the path to modernization.

China has assisted Africa in solving development problems such as lagging infrastructure, food shortages, and talent shortages while entering Africa has also brought opportunities for Chinese companies to expand their overseas markets.

For instance, in Tanzania’s coastal region, Chinese-invested Sapphire Float Glass Factory both serves the local market and exports float glass to six other African nations. Inaugurated in September 2023, the project was expected to generate up to 1,650 direct jobs and 6,000 indirect jobs upon reaching full production capacity. The factory has created 1,012 direct jobs for residents and 3,857 indirect jobs.

In the field of agriculture, China has established 24 agricultural technology demonstration centers in Africa over the past decade and introduced more than 300 advanced agricultural technologies, increasing local crop yields by an average of 30 to 60 percent and benefiting over a million farmers across the continent.

Currently, over 200 Chinese enterprises are continuing investments in Africa’s agricultural sector, with a cumulative investment stock exceeding $1 billion. These investments span various areas, including agricultural supplies and machinery, farming, processing and sales.

“On the path to modernization, no one, and no country, should be left behind,” Xi said at the opening ceremony of the 2024 FOCAC summit, calling for jointly advancing modernization that is just and equitable, is open and win-win, puts the people first, features diversity and inclusiveness, is eco-friendly and is underpinned by peace and security.

China and Africa’s joint pursuit of modernization will set off a wave of modernization in the Global South and open a new chapter in our drive for a community with a shared future for mankind, he said.

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-09-05/China-Africa-eye-new-chapter-in-building-community-with-shared-future-1wDYAx3CGLm/p.html 

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SOURCE CGTN

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Alliant Credit Union Foundation Announces Record Breaking Year in Efforts to Bridge the Digital Divide

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January 9, 2025

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Foundation awarded over $1.6 million to community organizations focused on digital equity in Illinois and Nationwide in 2024

CHICAGO, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — With the goal of providing reliable broadband, digital literacy resources and technology equipment for underserved communities across the United States, the Alliant Credit Union Foundation, today announced its 2024 efforts. In 2024, the Alliant Credit Union Foundation launched it’s Million Dollar Challenge, aiming to invest at least one million dollars in organizations working to close the digital gap. By 2024 year-end, the foundation has donated over $1.6 million to fifteen organizations nationwide.

The Alliant Credit Union Foundation funds were strategically allocated to charitable partners empowering local initiatives in Illinois and throughout the nation to enhance access to digital tools, and provide essential resources in rural, digitally challenged, and under-resourced populations.

“2024 has been a year of mission-driven and meaningful progress for the Alliant Foundation,” said Meredith Richie, President of the Alliant Credit Union Foundation. “From funding initiatives nationwide to facilitating technology access and driving important conversations, we’ve taken significant strides in addressing the digital gap. These achievements reflect the collective efforts of our partners, donors, and community members who share our vision of a more connected and equitable future.”

Some key grants from the Alliant Foundation in 2024 include:

$500,000 to PCs for People to expand their St. Louis processing center and purchase shipping trailers to run regular routes transporting devices and equipment from four of market locations (including Chicago).$250,000 to Digitunity for their Software Modernization Project a platform that will help states and corporations generate the supply they need to meet their Digital Equity Plan device goals.$250,000 to Compudopt for the Connectivity Chicago Project. The grant will allow the organization to expand their services and provide devices, education, and free internet to households.$100,040 to EveryoneOn for the Digital Connections Project to provide training and devices to individuals looking to enhance skills in the everchanging digital landscape.

Recognizing the importance of access to functional technology, the foundation hosted multiple events throughout the year to provide access to those who need it most. In February, the foundation partnered with EveryoneOn, Visa and with Nevada Partners, to open The Community Access Lab in Las Vegas’ Westside as a part of Visa’s Super Bowl Giveback Program. The Lab works to enhance community residents’ digital and financial literacy and foster Westside entrepreneurship. In the Spring and Fall the foundation partnered with PCs for People to host electronic drives at Alliant Credit Union headquarters in Chicago, a record-breaking 15,686 pounds of tech equipment was collected to be refurbished and distributed to populations in need.

The Digital Divide by the Numbers:

11.5 million American households without internet access, per the 2020 U.S. Census.1 in 5 parents say children’s homework cannot be completed without computer or internet access.$1 million+ Alliant Credit Union Foundation grants to foster digital inclusion within at-risk communities in 2024.

About Alliant Credit Union Foundation:
The Alliant Credit Union Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of communities by supporting initiatives that foster financial literacy, economic empowerment, and access to essential resources. As the philanthropic arm of Alliant Credit Union, the Foundation partners with organizations that align with its mission to create opportunities for underserved populations, promote financial education, and address the digital divide. The Alliant Credit Union Foundation is committed to making a lasting impact and helping individuals and families build a brighter financial future through strategic grants and community partnerships.

Media Contact:
Natalie Symonds 
nsymonds@alliantcreditunion.com
Sr. Media Strategist
Alliant Credit Union

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SOURCE Alliant Credit Union

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Old World Labs Unveils Advanced AI Agents at CES 2025: Revolutionizing Robotics and Virtual Worlds

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January 9, 2025

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LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On the first day of CES 2025, Old World Labs (OWL) is proud to announce groundbreaking advancements in its “Agents as a Service” technology, showcasing how these cutting-edge AI systems seamlessly integrate into humanoid robots and virtual environments. These innovations mark a significant leap forward in bridging the physical and digital worlds, setting a new standard for adaptability and intelligence in robotics.

 

The Next Generation of AI-Driven Robotics

At the forefront of OWL’s innovations is the “Replicants” system, a first-of-its-kind platform enabling self-replicating humanoid robots equipped with advanced AI agents. These agents combine real-time reasoning, resource-aware adaptability, and dynamic interaction, making them invaluable across industries—from manufacturing to immersive virtual experiences.

Key Features of the Replicants System:

Humanoid Robotics Integration: AI agents embedded within robots capable of natural human-like interactions and precise task execution.Virtual World Interoperability: Unified AI presence across physical robots and digital environments for seamless collaboration.Resource-Aware Design: Sustainable, scalable solutions that adapt to complex challenges in real time.

Why This Matters

The evolution of AI agents into humanoid robotics represents a paradigm shift in how humans engage with technology. OWL’s advancements enable robots to:

Understand and interact with 3D environments.Execute complex tasks autonomously, enhancing productivity and user experience.Transition seamlessly between physical and digital spaces, redefining the role of AI in daily life and industrial applications.

Quote from Nick Liverman, Founder of Old World Labs

“At CES 2025, we’re showcasing how Old World Labs is driving the future of AI and robotics. Our Replicants system empowers humanoid robots and virtual agents to function as intelligent companions and collaborators. These breakthroughs push beyond traditional boundaries, enabling accessible, adaptive, and scalable solutions for everyone,” said Nick Liverman.

Live Demonstrations and Interactive Sessions

Attendees at CES 2025 are invited to Booth #8777 in the LV North Hall to:

Experience Real-Time AI Integration: See how OWL’s agents operate humanoid robots with precision and adaptability.Explore Virtual World Interactions: Witness how AI agents transition seamlessly between robotics and immersive virtual platforms.Participate in Workshops: Learn how OWL’s “Agents as a Service” technology can transform industries and projects.

About Old World Labs

Founded in 2012 by Nick Liverman, Old World Labs has been a pioneer in robotics and AI innovation. Renowned for its high-precision 3D printing solutions, OWL is now at the forefront of integrating intelligent agents into humanoid robots and virtual worlds. With a mission to make advanced technology accessible and impactful, OWL continues to set the industry standard.

Media Contact

Eric Faust
Business Development
Old World Labs
info@oldworldlabs.com

Click here for more details about our booth at: https://ces25.mapyourshow.com/8_0/exhibitor/exhibitor-details.cfm?exhid=0014V00003uGRiBQAW

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SOURCE Old World Labs

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BLUETTI Unveils Apex 300 and EnergyPro 6K at CES 2025, Highlighting Brand Refinement Strategy for 2025

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January 9, 2025

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BLUETTI reinforces its role as a technology pioneer in clean energy with innovative energy solutions at CES 2025.

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BLUETTI, a leading provider of clean energy solutions and this year’s CES Innovation Award honoree, debuted its latest energy storage solutions, the Apex 300 portable power station and EnergyPro 6K whole house battery backup, during its brand refinement event at booth 9837 at CES 2025.

As part of its strategy to refine and elevate its global brand, BLUETTI launched its new product era 3.0, showcasing its groundbreaking new product series: Bluetti Elite, Apex, and EnergyPro. The highly anticipated products, Apex 300 and EnergyPro 6K, were officially unveiled during the event, marking a significant leap in the company’s ongoing commitment to pioneering clean energy storage.

BLUETTI Apex 300: The All-in-One Solution for Every Scenario

The Bluetti Apex 300 Portable Power Station is a versatile portable power station with a 2,764.8Wh capacity and 3,840W output, providing reliable power for home backup, RV road trips, and other off-grid scenarios. It can deliver both 120V and 240V power simultaneously, meaning user can handle essential appliances and heavy-duty devices like well pumps and dryers.

With advanced parallel-expansion technology, the Apex 300 can scale up to an impressive 58kWh storage and 11.52kW output, ensuring up to a week of power supply during extended outages. In parallel, it is powerful enough to charge an electric vehicle.

Charging is fast and flexible — powered by Turbo Boost charging technology, users can recharge the Apex 300 to 80% in just 45 minutes from mains power. Alternative charging options include solar panels, vehicles, generators, and EV stations. With industry-leading PV charging capacity of up to 30,720W, the Apex 300 ensures stable power even in remote locations or prolonged blackouts.

The Apex 300 is expected to be officially released in the second quarter of 2025.

BLUETTI EnergyPro 6K: The Ultimate Power Solution for Small to Medium Homes

Designed for residential and small-to-medium business use, the Bluetti EnergyPro 6K Whole House Battery Backup is a reliable, affordable and cost effective home energy storage system that integrates solar, battery, grid, generator, and EV power sources. It supplies dependable backup power during power outages, peak periods, or other off-grid settings.

The EnergyPro offers flexible scalability for a personalized power experience. By connecting up to five EnergyPro 6K units, users can achieve substantial power output and storage capabilities to weather extended blackouts or support small off-grid farms.

Seamlessly integrating with users’ existing rooftop solar systems, the EnergyPro 6K optimizes energy usage by storing excess solar power. This allows homeowners to always be prepared for power interruptions while reducing their electricity bills. The AT1 Smart Distribution Box further enhances energy efficiency by allowing any supported EV to charge the battery during extended power outages, and home standby generators to automatically fuel the battery without manual switching. This comprehensive energy solution ensures uninterrupted power in any situation, without relying on the grid or favorable weather conditions.

The EnergyPro 6K is expected to be officially released in the second quarter of 2025.

Powered by BLUETTI Future Tech System

The Apex 300 and EnergyPro 6K are powered by BLUETTI’s cutting-edge Future Energy Tech System, which consists of four key pillars:

BLUEPEAK Innovation Hub: The core of BLUETTI’s hardware and physical innovations in energy storage.BLUELINK Energy Network: The brain behind BLUETTI’s product and energy solutions, providing intelligent and seamless connectivity.BLUEGRID Power Infrastructure: Tailored tech solutions for households and SME businesses, offering scalable and efficient power management.BLUELIFE Ecosystem Tech: A lifestyle-driven tech ecosystem that integrates energy seamlessly into daily life, empowering consumers to embrace sustainable living.

BLUETTI’s ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and clean energy solutions is poised to reshape how consumers and businesses manage their power needs in 2025 and beyond. For more information on the upcoming products and BLUETTI’s vision, visit us at booth 9837 CES 2025 and explore the future of energy.

About BLUETTI

Founded in 2009, BLUETTI is a pioneer force in clean energy technology, committed to a sustainable future by providing green and independent energy storage solutions for every household. With a strong focus on innovation and customer needs, BLUETTI has gained the trust of 3.5 million customers and established a presence in over 110 countries & regions. Through initiatives like the LAAF (Lighting An African Family) Program, BLUETTI is dedicated to bringing power to millions of African families in off-grid areas.

Contact: Ellen Lee, ellenlee@bluetti.com 

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SOURCE BLUETTI POWER INC

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