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Global Times interview with Maria João Rodrigues on China-Europe relations

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BEIJING, Dec. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The 2024 Understanding China Conference is being held in Guangzhou, capital of South China’s Guangdong Province, from Monday to Wednesday. What is the significance of understanding China? How should Europe understand China amid a time of global turmoil and changes? Are more Europeans willing to have a positive interaction with China? Maria João Rodrigues (Rodrigues), president of the Foundation for European Progressive Studies and former member of the European Parliament, discussed these issues with Global Times (GT) reporter Li Aixin.

GT: On the topic of “understanding China,” what do you think is the most important aspect for the world to understand about China?

Rodrigues: I’ve been in China for several important moments. I first came in 1997, quite a long time ago, and I’ve witnessed how China has moved through different stages of development. I must say that, in my case and for many others, this is quite impressive because, in a very short period of time, China has been able to address critical issues.

China has almost eradicated absolute poverty and is steadily improving the average living standards of Chinese people. This is remarkable because we are talking about a massive transformation of a country on a very large scale, achieved in a relatively short time. I know that behind this progress lies a well-prepared strategy.

The fact that China has been able to combine two key features of development is remarkable. One of these features is innovation. China has been able to innovate new products and services for the domestic population, while also exporting them around the world. The other key feature is social inclusion. There is a strong focus on social inclusion within China, addressing the needs of the population at large and systematically improving living conditions. Achieving both of these things at the same time is not easy, but China is a prime example of how this can be done.

GT: You once mentioned, “instead of being systematic rivals, Europe and China should be global partners to improve global governance. This can make a big difference for the world.” Could you elaborate on this?

Rodrigues: It is true that we started with a very intensive partnership – we are partners. Then, competition is also part of our relationship. But on the global level, China and Europe can do a lot together to tackle global challenges, starting with climate change, sustainable development as a whole, reducing poverty, and supporting developing countries to catch up more quickly on sustainable development goals.

To achieve this, they need to rely on stronger financial resources, trade opportunities and technological cooperation. Europe and China both have important resources in technology, trade and finance. Together, they can truly support developing countries in catching up.

GT: Is the number of people in Europe who are willing to understand and engage in dialogue with China, increasing or decreasing?

Rodrigues: I would say that we have mixed trends. Europeans are very interested in China because it is an ancient civilization, a civilization they recognize as being sophisticated. They admire it because Europe, too, is an old civilization, and we relate to each other well in that regard.

Furthermore, the European population has benefited greatly from importing many goods from China, which has also helped improve living standards in Europe. This openness between China and Europe has continued. But more recently, because China has become very successful and is now a highly competitive economy, some sectors in Europe are feeling the pressure. China has a trade surplus with Europe, and European authorities are addressing this with their Chinese counterparts, saying – let’s cooperate, but in a way that this trade surplus is reduced.

GT: The EU decided to impose tariffs of up to 45.3 percent on Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs) from October 30. Do you see any solution to this dispute between China and Europe?

Rodrigues: The starting point of this issue is related to China’s success. China was able to start producing EVs that are cheaper and more affordable for the middle class. Europe, however, is still not there, as it began producing EVs, but only for the high-end market.

We need to maintain openness. Trade opportunities should remain open for both sides – China and Europe. Therefore, what I believe should be done from the European side is to develop an industrial plan to produce EVs for the middle class in Europe, which are more affordable.

I think this is on the horizon. The main carmakers in Europe are preparing to achieve this goal. Once they do, we can have natural competition between Chinese and European brands in open markets and trade. This is my hope, but we will have to see.

I can also tell that within EU institutions, there is a discussion on what the plan should be – an industrial plan to develop electric cars that should be cheaper and more affordable. So, this discussion is also taking place in European institutions.

If the resolution can be reached, Europe and China will give a strong signal to the world that we don’t believe in a protectionist reaction. Regarding trade, we prefer to have openness.

GT: Will the next US administration bring more opportunities or more risks for China–Europe relations?

Rodrigues: There is something very important to understand – Europe will define its relationship with China on its own. Europe needs to have its own criteria to assess why a relationship with China is important and under what conditions. This is something that the EU must do on its own.

The EU is a political entity that truly wants to maintain openness to the world and develop international cooperation to address global challenges. We also want a stronger multilateral system.

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SOURCE Global Times

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Korean Buyers Invited to Connect with Chinese Suppliers at C-TOUCH & DISPLAY and FILM & TAPE EXPO 2026

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SHENZHEN, China, Oct. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Featuring Korea Day business matchmaking, next-generation display technologies and advanced functional materials, the October exhibitions offer Korean industry professionals new opportunities to explore suppliers and strengthen cross-border partnerships.

As demand grows for advanced displays, semiconductor technologies and high-performance materials, C-TOUCH & DISPLAY SHENZHEN 2026 and FILM & TAPE EXPO 2026 will welcome Korean buyers and industry professionals to Shenzhen, China, from October 27–29. The exhibitions will provide opportunities to discover new technologies, meet Chinese manufacturers and explore business partnerships across the electronics, display, automotive and advanced materials supply chains.

C-TOUCH: Exploring Next-Generation Display and Semiconductor Technologies

C-TOUCH & DISPLAY SHENZHEN 2026 will showcase technologies spanning OLED, Micro LED, flexible displays, touch panels, e-paper, commercial displays, automotive displays and AI+AR smart glasses. As display technologies converge with AI computing, optical communications and semiconductor packaging, the exhibition will connect Korean visitors with suppliers developing materials, components, manufacturing equipment and integrated solutions.

A key highlight is the TGV Glass Substrate Advanced Packaging Zone, where visitors can explore eight major process stages, including laser induction, etching, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), physical vapor deposition (PVD), electroplating, chemical mechanical planarization (CMP), coating and photolithography.

FILM & TAPE EXPO: Functional Materials for Electronics and Advanced Manufacturing

FILM & TAPE EXPO 2026 will bring together suppliers of functional films, optical films, protective and release films, polyimide (PI) films, adhesive tapes, optical clear adhesives (OCA), thermal-management materials and precision converting equipment.

The exhibition will also cover coating, laminating, slitting, rewinding, inspection and die-cutting technologies. These solutions support applications across consumer electronics, semiconductors, automotive electronics, batteries and energy storage, PCB/FPC and industrial manufacturing.

Korea Day: Connecting Korean Buyers with Chinese Suppliers

A major opportunity for Korean visitors will be Korea Day, a dedicated buyer–supplier matchmaking initiative designed to facilitate business connections between Korean industry professionals and Chinese suppliers.

The program will provide a focused setting for buyers to communicate their sourcing needs, explore relevant products and technologies, and discuss potential cooperation directly with suppliers. For companies seeking new sourcing options, manufacturing partners or materials for product development, Korea Day can help make exhibition visits more targeted and productive.

Easier Travel: China’s 30-Day Visa-Free Policy for South Korean Citizens

Travel planning has also become more convenient for eligible Korean visitors. Under China’s current unilateral visa-free policy, South Korean citizens holding ordinary passports may enter China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days for business, tourism, family or friends visits, exchange visits and transit.

The policy has been extended through December 31, 2026. Visitors should consult the Chinese Embassy in the Republic of Korea for the latest official guidance.

Register to Visit Shenzhen This October

C-TOUCH & DISPLAY SHENZHEN 2026 and FILM & TAPE EXPO 2026 will take place October 27–29 at Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center in Bao’an, Shenzhen, China.

C-TOUCH & DISPLAY SHENZHEN 2026: Pre-register here

FILM & TAPE EXPO 2026: Pre-register here

About RX Kuozhan

RX Kuozhan is a joint venture between Reed Exhibitions and Kuozhan Exhibition Services (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., established in 2015. The company organizes a portfolio of industry-leading exhibitions serving the display, touch technology, functional films, adhesive materials, commercial display and advanced materials sectors. Through its exhibitions and industry engagement initiatives, RX Kuozhan connects manufacturers, technology providers, buyers and industry professionals, facilitating business partnerships, technology exchange and cross-industry collaboration in China and international markets.

For more information, please visit C-TOUCH & DISPLAY SHENZHEN and FILM & TAPE EXPO.

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SOURCE RX Kuozhan

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What’s Next for Webull Corporation Shareholders After 19.09% Stock Drop? Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP Explains Securities Fraud Class Action Lead Plaintiff Deadline

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Complaint alleges Webull Corporation misled investors between April 26, 2025 and October 6, 2026; investors may seek lead plaintiff role by December 7, 2026

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP (“Glancy”) announced today that the class action lawsuit covers investors who bought Webull Corporation (“Webull” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BULL) securities between April 26, 2025 and October 6, 2026. The Webull Corporation case, Ward v. Webull Corporation et al., was filed on October 8, 2026 in the U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida (Tampa) (Case No. 8:26-cv-03052).

Investors who suffered losses on Webull Corporation investments can submit their Webull Corporation loss information here before the December 7, 2026 lead plaintiff deadline.

Key dates in the Webull Corporation case

Class period: April 26, 2025 to October 6, 2026Complaint filed: October 8, 2026Lead plaintiff deadline: December 7, 2026

What happened?

On October 7, 2026, the bipartisan House Select Committee on China issued a report which found “a profound gap” between Webull’s public marketing as “an American company” and actual control of the alleged St. Petersburg, Florida-based firm. The committee reportedly found “Webull’s ownership architecture, technical workforce, technology infrastructure, cross-border data routing, corporate financing, and compliance frameworks are tied in structural ways to the People’s Republic of China.” The Select Committee also reportedly found that Webull initially told the Select Committee that it had no offices or employees in China, while Webull’s mainland China subsidiary in fact employed approximately 863 employees, or 62% of Webull’s global workforce.

Webull Corporation stock fell $1.39 or 19.09%, to close at $5.89 on October 7, 2026, thereby injuring investors.

What is the Webull Corporation lawsuit about?

The Webull Corporation securities lawsuit alleges that, between April 26, 2025 and October 6, 2026, defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements and failed to disclose material adverse facts about Webull Corporation’s business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, the complaint alleges defendants failed to disclose that: (1) Webull’s mainland China operations were not limited to research and development and technical support functions, but rather Webull’s software development, data pipelines, and core engineering depended on PRC-based personnel and on infrastructure subject to Chinese law; (2) Webull’s ownership structure, technical workforce, technology infrastructure, cross-border data routing, financing, and compliance structure were structurally tied to China; (3) as a result, Webull’s representations that its principal business operations were based in the U.S. and that its U.S. customer data was insulated from non-U.S. access materially overstated Webull’s independence from the PRC; and (4) as a result, defendants’ positive statements about Webull Corporation’s business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.

“The complaint filed against Webull Corporation alleges that, among other things, the Company failed to disclose that Webull’s mainland China operations were not limited to research and development and technical support functions, but rather Webull’s software development, data pipelines, and core engineering depended on PRC-based personnel and on infrastructure subject to Chinese law. For investors who bought during the class period, the December 7, 2026 deadline is the first major step in this case,” said Charles H. Linehan, Partner at Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP.

What’s the next step?

Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP is a leading national shareholder rights law firm, ready to assist Webull Corporation investors in potentially pursuing claims to recover their losses.

If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff in the Webull Corporation class action, you must move the Court no later than December 7, 2026. To learn more about your rights, visit the Webull Corporation case page, email shareholders@glancylaw.com, or call 310-201-9150 (toll-free: 888-773-9224).

You may retain counsel of your choice. If you bought Webull Corporation securities during the class period, you may take no action and remain an absent class member. No class has been certified yet in the Webull Corporation case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible? Investors who purchased or otherwise acquired Webull Corporation securities between April 26, 2025 and October 6, 2026 and suffered losses may be members of the proposed class in the Webull Corporation shareholder lawsuit. Any class member may ask the court to appoint them lead plaintiff by December 7, 2026.

What is a lead plaintiff? In the Webull Corporation class action, the lead plaintiff is the investor, or group of investors, that the court appoints to represent all class members and oversee the case. Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act, courts generally presume the movant with the largest financial interest is the most adequate lead plaintiff.

Do I have to be lead plaintiff to recover? No. A Webull Corporation investor’s ability to share in any future recovery does not depend on serving as lead plaintiff. Webull Corporation investors may take no action and remain absent class members.

What is the deadline? Motions to serve as lead plaintiff in the Webull Corporation class action must be filed by December 7, 2026.

Does it cost anything to contact Glancy or participate in this action? Glancy represents Webull Corporation investors on a contingency fee basis, which means investors pay no attorneys’ fees unless there is a recovery. Any fees are subject to court approval and are paid from the recovery.

Can I choose my own lawyer? Yes. Webull Corporation investors may retain counsel of their choice.

Why work with Glancy on the Webull Corporation lawsuit? Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP is a premier law firm with decades of experience representing investors and consumers in securities litigation and other complex class action litigation. Contact Glancy about the Webull Corporation lawsuit. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

About Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP

Glancy was named one of Law360’s Securities Groups of the Year and ranked second in total investor recoveries by ISS Securities Class Action Services in 2025.

Glancy’s successes have been widely covered by leading news and industry publications, including The Wall Street Journal, The Financial Times, Bloomberg Businessweek, Reuters, the Associated Press, Barron’s, Investor’s Business Daily, Forbes, and Money.

Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Related links

Webull Corporation case page, Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLPComplaint: Ward v. Webull Corporation et al., U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida (Tampa)Webull Corporation SEC filings index, EDGARGlancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP

CONTACT:
Charles H. Linehan
Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP
1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100
Los Angeles, CA 90067
Email: shareholders@glancylaw.com
Telephone: 310-201-9150 | Toll-free: 888-773-9224
www.glancylaw.com

Follow Glancy on LinkedIn, X, or Facebook.

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.

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SOURCE Glancy Prongay Wolke & Rotter LLP

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NetDragon Partners with Jiuzhou Culture to Establish Joint Venture

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Takes Controlling Stake in AI Harness Business to Advance a Third Growth Engine

HONG KONG, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (“NetDragon” or the “Company”; Hong Kong Stock Code: 0777), a global leader in building internet communities, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a legally binding memorandum of understanding (“MOU”) with Jiuzhou Culture (“Jiuzhou”), a leading AIGC short drama production and distribution company in China, to establish a joint venture (“JV”) in which NetDragon will hold a 51% controlling interest. The partnership will focus on artificial intelligence technologies, AIGC-powered content creation and digital technology services, further expanding NetDragon’s AI application scenarios and commercialisation opportunities while accelerating the development of a new growth engine.

Deepening the Integration of AIGC and Content to Build a Diversified Digital Business Platform

Rapid advances in AIGC are continuing to reshape content creation, digital entertainment and software services. With the ongoing maturation of generative AI, large-scale AI models and AI agents, AI is evolving from a supporting tool into a productivity platform that can enhance the entire value chain, from content creation and production to operations and commercialisation. Through the JV Company, NetDragon and Jiuzhou will combine their complementary strengths in technology, IP, content and industry resources to accelerate the deployment of AIGC across real-world commercial applications.

Under the MOU, Jiuzhou will inject into the JV Company all intellectual property, technologies and assets relating to the AI Harness system business, laying a solid foundation for product development and commercialisation. NetDragon will contribute Hong Kong dollars cash equivalent to RMB 50 million to the JV Company, acquire a 51% shareholding interest and consolidate the JV Company’s financial results. The JV Company will focus on expanding foundational artificial intelligence software, large-scale AI models and the AI Harness system business. It is expected to serve as the first commercial validation platform in China for NetDragon’s “AI ecosystem co-creation” strategy, marking the launch of the Company’s third growth engine and laying the groundwork for the business model to be replicated and scaled across various sectors.

To accelerate the scalable commercialisation of the AI Harness business, the transaction also incorporates a multi-tiered, progressive performance-based incentive warrant scheme. NetDragon will issue 25 million unlisted warrants to Jiuzhou at an issue price of HK$0.10 per warrant share, to be granted in three tranches with initial exercise prices of HK$10, HK$12 and HK$15, respectively. The warrants will only become exercisable upon achievement of specified key performance indicators by the JV Company. Assuming full exercise of all warrants at the initial exercise prices, NetDragon will receive aggregate gross proceeds of approximately HK$314 million, which will supplement the Company’s development capital while achieving deep alignment of interests and shared equity upside with its strategic partner. 

Strengthening AI Ecosystem Synergies to Drive a Third Growth Engine

As generative AI becomes increasingly integrated into content production, digital services and global operations, NetDragon and Jiuzhou will take this collaboration as a new starting point to fully leverage their complementary strengths and accelerate the commercialisation of AI capabilities, translating technological innovation into tangible business value. In recent years, NetDragon has continued to advance its AI strategy across AI+gaming, AI+education and enterprise intelligence, while actively exploring emerging AI businesses with the potential to establish independent commercial models. Jiuzhou, meanwhile, has built deep expertise in micro-dramas and digital content, with an integrated value chain spanning copyright operations, content creation, co-production, paid distribution and official distribution. It has also continued to expand the use of AIGC across content production, creation and operations. The two parties will further explore the deep integration of AI technology with the content industry, accelerating the implementation of AI capabilities in scenarios such as content generation, AI model applications, translation and localisation, platform operations, and enterprise technology services, to build scalable and sustainable business models.

Following the launch of the MOYU AI platform in August 2026, NetDragon’s investment and controlling stake in the AI Harness business marks another important step in increasing resource allocation to its AI business and broadening its long-term growth pathways. The performance-linked equity incentive collaboration with Jiuzhou is expected to establish a new model of strategic collaboration for NetDragon, enabling the Company and its partners to grow the business together and share in the value created. Looking ahead, NetDragon will remain focused on its core AI business, deepen technological innovation and resource integration, and leverage its established strengths in gaming and education alongside the emerging growth engine of AI ecosystem co-creation. Under this three-pronged strategy, the Company aims to continuously strengthen its core competitiveness, enhance long-term investment value, and deliver sustainable returns to shareholders.

About NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited

NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (HKSE: 777) is a global leader in building internet communities, with a long track record of developing and scaling multiple internet and mobile platforms that impact hundreds of millions of users. Over the desktop and mobile internet eras, NetDragon previously established China’s first online gaming portal, 17173.com, and China’s most influential smartphone app store platform, 91 Wireless.   

Established in 1999, NetDragon is one of the most reputable and well-known digital entertainment IP developers and operators in China with a history of successful flagship game titles deeply welcomed by users both at home and abroad. For more than a decade, NetDragon has also achieved success with its EdTech business both domestically and globally. Fully embracing the new AI era, NetDragon is driving its vision of “Infinite Growth” through AI-enabled digital entertainment and online learning, whilst building a systematic AI product methodology to create value growth.

NetDragon’s overseas edtech business entity, currently a U.S.-listed subsidiary named Mynd.ai, is a global leader in interactive technology and its award-winning interactive displays and software can be found in more than 2 million learning and training spaces across 126 countries. 

About Jiuzhou Culture

Founded in 2021, Jiuzhou is a leading player in the online micro-drama industry, with an integrated business model spanning copyright operations, content creation, co-production, paid distribution and official distribution. The company has established a comprehensive, end-to-end content ecosystem designed to enhance operational efficiency and unlock synergies across the value chain. Embracing technological innovation, Jiuzhou actively integrates cutting-edge technologies such as AIGC to enhance content quality and creative capabilities. Its self-developed Moss tool has accelerated AI adoption across the entire value chain, leveraging technology to advance the development of the global short drama ecosystem.

In terms of content creation, Jiuzhou has accumulated the rights to more than 4,000 short dramas and has successfully distributed over 1,000 productions. Its portfolio spans more than 20 popular genres, including contemporary drama, romance, campus life, fantasy, suspense and historical fiction, catering to the diverse entertainment preferences of audiences in China and worldwide. By combining paid content, free-to-view short dramas and international expansion, Jiuzhou has developed a distinctive business ecosystem that strengthens its competitive position and drives continued innovation in the micro-drama industry.

Internationally, the company leverages its strengths in content production, audience reach and distribution networks to bring Chinese micro-dramas to global audiences while tailoring its offerings to local tastes and cultural preferences. Its flagship international platform, ShortMax, focuses primarily on North American and European markets, offering a wide selection of localized Chinese dramas and original productions. ShortMax is now available in more than 200 countries and regions worldwide, having achieved peak monthly active users (MAU) of over 30 million, more than 90 million cumulative registered users and 200 million downloads.

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SOURCE NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited

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