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The Government of Canada calls for stronger international cooperation on digital governance at UNESCO

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The government reaffirms its firm commitment as an active and determined partner to support the principles of the 2005 UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions in a digital world

GATINEAU, QC, Feb. 14, 2025 /CNW/ – For several decades, the Government of Canada has acted as leader and defender of cultural sovereignty. Today, it is helping ensure that it does not fall solely into the hands of digital giants. Canada reaffirms its desire to act collectively so that the fundamental values of the 2005 UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions are not only preserved but strengthened—and that the digital environment can remain a lever for cultural diversification.

The Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage, today announced that Canada is more firmly committed than ever to protecting cultural heritage, which is fundamental to the identity, social cohesion, economic sustainability, peace and security of the international community in the digital age. The government is working tirelessly to guarantee a future where all cultural expressions are valued, both on our screens and in our everyday lives.

We are at a decisive turning point: the rise of digital platforms and technologies offers unprecedented opportunities for the creative sector, but it also raises major challenges in terms of regulation, fairness, protection of cultural identities and linguistic diversity. We will continue to take a close look at the rapidly developing world of artificial intelligence (AI) and adapt to the risks and opportunities it brings.

As a member of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, Canada raised these issues at the Committee’s 18th session, which was held in Paris from February 11 to 14. At this meeting, Canada worked with the other Parties to the Convention to advance the implementation of the recommendations of the UNESCO Reflection Group on the diversity of cultural expressions in the digital environment.

This work, which began here in Canada—in cooperation with the Government of Quebec and informed by civil society—at the group’s inaugural meeting in the spring of 2024, is essential to better understand the complex issues of this evolving ecosystem. It highlights the immense challenges that many countries continue to face.

Canada is already fully committed to several of the general objectives put forward by the experts, such as promoting cooperation on cultural and linguistic diversity, fostering inclusive AI ecosystems and strengthening capacity in developing countries.

Consult Canada’s Quadrennial Periodic Report on the Implementation of the UNESCO Convention, which demonstrates the collective effort of our many partners, including the provinces and territories, major Canadian cultural institutions, and civil society, to highlight our support for the protection and promotion of the diversity of cultural expressions.

Quotes

“We are reaching a new step in the protection and promotion of cultural diversity. Canada recognizes the urgency to take action to preserve our wealth of cultural expressions in an ever-changing world. We are proud to actively support UNESCO’s efforts to advance several key files in the digital environment. We have already taken numerous measures at the national level to adapt our laws and cultural programs to reflect this new reality. Canada supports the work of the experts at UNESCO to implement the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions in the digital environment.”

—The Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage

Quick Facts

The Convention is a fundamental pillar in the construction of open, equitable and inclusive societies. It also represents a moral commitment to present and future generations. For nearly 20 years, it has guided us in developing innovative cultural policies that serve artists and cultural industries, and support Canada’s linguistic diversity.

In the past year, Canada played an important role in the implementation of an international group of 18 independent experts tasked with reflecting upon and making recommendations to the Parties to the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions (“2005 Convention”) on four themes: the linguistic diversity of cultural content, the discoverability of local and national cultural content, greater transparency on digital platforms, and the impact of artificial intelligence on the cultural and creative industries.

To date, Canada has contributed more than $5.5 million to UNESCO’s Emergency Heritage Fund to protect endangered world heritage and ensure a cultural legacy for future generations.

Canada was the first country to ratify the 2005 UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions. Canadian Heritage played a key role in its development and remains the department responsible for its implementation in Canada. The 2005 Convention, which now has 158 signatories, is an essential instrument for ensuring the diversity of cultural expressions in all environments, including the digital environment.

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Recommendations of the Reflection Group on the Diversity of Cultural Expressions in the Digital Environment

2005 UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions – Quadrennial Periodic Report Canada 2024 on the Implementation of the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions

Canada and Quebec are co-organizing the first meeting of the UNESCO Group of Experts on the diversity of cultural expression in the digital environment 

Associated Links

2005 Convention on Diversity of Cultural Expressions

Promoting our cultures in the digital age – Report on the day of reflection with speakers from the cultural, academic and legal fields in the lead-up to UNESCO’s work on the digital age 

SOURCE Canadian Heritage

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SKYWORTH Solar Announces Global Launch of Solavita as a Smart Microgrid Brand

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October 31, 2026

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SHENZHEN, China, Oct. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — SKYWORTH Solar has officially announced the global launch of Solavita, its dedicated brand for smart microgrid solutions. Positioned strategically as “A Smart Microgrid Expert for Diverse Energy Scenarios,” Solavita consolidates the company’s extensive solution portfolio and service infrastructure under a unified global identity, building upon its rapidly expanding international footprint.

Addressing Grid Flexibility and Long-Term System Value

The launch comes as electricity systems face growing demands for flexibility. The International Energy Agency’s 2026 mid-year electricity update highlights the importance of flexible resources and more efficient use of infrastructure as renewable generation expands. For customers, the priorities vary by market: managing electricity costs, using more locally generated solar power, or maintaining essential loads where grid supply is unreliable.

“As renewable energy becomes more distributed, the long-term performance of the whole system becomes increasingly important,” said Fan Ruiwu, Chairman of SKYWORTH Solar. “We see that performance as the foundation of our international energy business. With Solavita, we are bringing our capabilities together around a common approach to solution development and service, while working with local partners to adapt delivery to each market. Our focus is on the value these systems provide throughout their life.”

Solutions for Different Energy Needs

To address the dual challenges of grid volatility and operational cost, Solavita engineers its systems around a core architectural philosophy prioritizing grid-forming stability, intelligent automation, cross-generation efficiency, and multi-tier security. Translating these technical principles into practical applications, the brand introduces a comprehensive solution matrix tailored to specific market demands.

For residential users, the SolaHome suite utilizes an advanced Home Energy Management System (HEMS) to seamlessly coordinate rooftop solar, battery storage, and flexible domestic loads like heat pumps and EV chargers. In markets with dynamic electricity tariffs, such as Germany, HEMS automates energy dispatch to capitalize on low-price periods. This practical value is evidenced by a recent residential installation in Jesteburg, Germany, combines 18.9 kW of rooftop solar with 20.48 kWh of battery storage. Solavita reports nearly €50 in electricity-price arbitrage benefits during the first month of dynamic-tariff operation.

Expanding beyond the home, the portfolio scales up with SolaBiz, which integrates distributed solar, commercial storage, and smart dispatch to help factories and retail spaces manage peak-demand costs and safeguard against grid disruptions.

For larger utility and off-grid demands, SolaMatrix delivers scalable, containerized storage and microgrid management focused on stabilizing renewable integration in weak grid environments.

Finally, ensuring energy access in highly mobile contexts, SolaGo offers plug-and-play balcony solar and portable power systems for outdoor activities and critical emergency backup, completing Solavita’s end-to-end coverage of modern energy applications.

Global Engineering Foundation and Ecosystem Delivery

To guarantee the reliable implementation and long-term asset value of these diverse solutions, SKYWORTH Solar underpins Solavita with a robust global engineering foundation.

On the technology front, the Smart Microgrid Technology Centre connects cutting-edge research with product engineering, supported by academic collaborations with Tianjin University and Hainan University. This pipeline is further strengthened by a comprehensive Haikou test platform—scheduled for commissioning by the end of 2026—to rigorously validate grid-connected, islanded, and grid-forming systems.

The InfraCosmos Digital Platform supports lifecycle data management, operational monitoring and fault identification. It connects system information with service and maintenance, helping teams monitor performance and respond to operating issues.

Beyond hardware and software, this foundation extends to flexible supply chain execution and strategic project delivery. Solavita employs F+D+EPC+O (Financing, Development, Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Operations) framework for large-scale, asset-light project coordination, alongside a localized PD2C cooperation model actively deployed in markets like Germany and Italy to ensure rapid, market-specific service.

These capabilities underpin Solavita’s positioning as a smart microgrid expert, connecting system development with local delivery and ongoing service. The aim is to make integrated energy systems practical to deploy and support in each market.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/skyworth-solar-announces-global-launch-of-solavita-as-a-smart-microgrid-brand-302925531.html

SOURCE SKYWORTH Solar

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TCL Donates Ultra-Low-Power Display System to the Youth Olympic Village, Bringing Advanced Display Technology to Everyday Use

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October 31, 2026

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The donation of the display, featuring TCL CSOT’s high-brightness Field Sequential Color technology, continues TCL’s long-term commitment to the African market

DAKAR, Senegal, Oct. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — TCL, a Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner, donated an ultra-low-power display system powered by solar energy to Université Amadou Mahtar Mbow (UAM) in Senegal. Delivering outdoor brightness at roughly half the power consumption of comparable displays, the system will serve as an information hub on the UAM campus, which will also serve as the Youth Olympic Village during the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.

Attendees at the donation ceremony included IOC President, Kirsty Coventry; UAM President, Professor Mababa Diagne; Senegal Higher Education Minister, Boubacar Camara; TCL Charity Ambassador, Jacky Heung; and General Manager of TCL Industries’ Middle East and Africa Marketing Division, Naimin Yang.

“Powered by TCL’s advanced display technology, this new display system will create new possibilities for our campus facilities and support development for both students and faculty,” said Professor Diagne.

Advanced Display Technology Delivers Best in Brightness and Efficiency

The donated system features a TCL CSOT 75-inch high-brightness Field Sequential Color (FSC) display capable of delivering 4,000-nit brightness at approximately 300W. By eliminating conventional color filters and generating color through the sequential switching of red, green and blue light, FSC technology enhances light utilization with transmittance over 15%.

The technology reflects TCL CSOT’s continued pursuit of improved display performance and energy efficiency, bringing advanced screens into everyday settings through TCL’s broader Screen Universe vision. Installed at UAM, the display will serve as an outdoor information hub, remaining bright and clear even in direct sunlight.

TCLArt and TCLYoung Champion Local Art and the Next Generation of Creators

Beyond technology, TCL also supports local culture in Dakar through its art-focused initiative, TCLArt. TCL participates in the Yeesal urban art initiative, which works with Senegalese artists and communities to create large-scale public murals. The project supports 43 artists, especially creators under 35, whose works draw inspiration from African athletes, cultural diversity, and youth aspirations. These murals will become permanent features of Dakar’s urban landscape, celebrating local creativity while reflecting TCL’s commitment to the next generation of creative talent through TCLYoung.

From Local Presence to Shared Growth: TCL Deepens its Footprint in Africa

Both the donation and Yeesal partnership build on a presence in Africa stretching back more than two decades. TCL first entered the African market in 2004. Today, TCL TVs and home appliances are sold in nearly 50 African countries across the continent, supported by six sales subsidiaries and three regional business units. TCL continues to strengthen its retail presence across the region, including with the opening of the first TCL brand experience store in Africa in Johannesburg, and the establishment of its own retail and distribution channel in Kenya.

Through its established business network and localized operations, TCL continues to build closer connections with African customers and consumers, combining global technological capabilities with a deeper understanding of local markets to better serve people across the region.

About TCL

Founded in 1981, TCL is dedicated to empowering smarter, healthier lifestyles through next-generation experiences.

Today, with 50 R&D centers and 47 manufacturing bases globally, TCL operates in over 160 countries and regions, reinforcing its position as a globally competitive smart technology brand. To further inspire greatness, TCL has become an official Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner in the Home Audiovisual Equipment and Home Appliances category.

https://www.tcl.com/global/en

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SOURCE TCL Technology Group Corporation

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GAC Wins 8 Awards, Including 4 First Prizes, Showcasing Technological Innovation Strength

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October 31, 2026

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SUZHOU, China, Oct. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On October 28, GAC won 8 awards at the 2026 China-SAE Science and Technology Award ceremony in Suzhou, Jiangsu. In the fields of automotive chips, electric drive, vehicle safety, intelligent driving governance and body design, four first prizes were awarded to two GAC-led projects and two GAC-participated projects, and one GAC-led project won second prize.

In chips, GAC’s led project built a full-chain path from vehicle definition to scale application, working with 105 partners to apply nearly 400 chip models and over 1,000 domestic chips. The HYPTEC GT Special Edition, China’s first ICV with 100% domestically designed chips, has been launched.

In electric drive, GAC pioneered mass production of amorphous alloy stators and carbon-fiber high-speed rotors, becoming the world’s only company to mass-produce amorphous alloy automotive motors. Its amorphous ribbon is just 0.025 mm thick. The motor reaches 99.03% peak efficiency, 17.29 kW/kg power density (@1000V)—nearly three times the industry mainstream—and 30,000 rpm maximum speed; system CLTC efficiency reaches 94.184%. For users, energy consumption drops 4%, and range rises 30-50 km with the same battery capacity. It has been applied to HYPTEC, AION and AISTALAND models and promoted to other automakers. The related precision manufacturing technology won the Gold Medal with Congratulations of the Jury at the 51st International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva.

In safety, the GAC-led project with Tsinghua University won second prize. It developed China’s first ASIL-D fully domestic safety controller, real-time risk quantification, active-suspension side-impact mitigation, a rear-window airbag and an “automaker-traffic police-hospital” integrated rescue model. It has been applied to 20 models with cumulative sales of 1.446 million units.

In addition, GAC’s participated L2-L4 safety governance project helped establish a full-lifecycle system covering pre-admission, in-process supervision and post-event traceability. Its participated BIW project features an AI-based body design system that generates concept schemes within 5 hours, with over 95% stiffness prediction accuracy and over 30% higher design efficiency; it has been applied to the second-generation GAC GS8, GAC ES9 and GAC All-new S7.

Looking ahead, GAC will uphold innovation-driven development, advance core technology breakthroughs and commercialization, and support high-quality development of China’s auto industry.

For further information about GAC, please visit: https://www.gacgroup.com/en or follow us on social.

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SOURCE GAC

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