Even as the world grapples with its worst crisis since World War II, some risks are more potent, deadly, and likely to change the course of world politics. These are Eurasia Group’s Top Risks for 2021, the firm’s annual prediction of the ten greatest threats to the trajectories of nations, global politics, industries and institutions. Unveiled each January, Top Risks helps investors, companies and the public anticipate and respond to opportunities wherever they invest or do business. The report is co-written by Eurasia Group President Ian Bremmer and Chairman Cliff Kupchan.

The #1 risk for 2021 is “46*”—the opening of an era in which the occupant of the White House is viewed as illegitimate by roughly half the country. Donald Trump’s refusal to accept the outcome of an election that he declares was stolen is unique in American history, underscoring how divided America has become—and will remain.

“A superpower torn down the middle cannot return to business as usual,” write Bremmer and Kupchan. “And when the world’s most powerful country is so divided, everybody has a problem. The geopolitical recession—and our G-Zero world—will deepen as a result.”

Bremmer and Kupchan go on to argue that the strength of Trump’s base and political divisions in the US will force allies to consider the possibility that any commitments made by the incoming Biden administration could be overturned in four years with the election of another “America First” president.

Other Top Risks in the report include the ongoing impact of the coronavirus pandemic, climate change, the US-China conflict, data and cybersecurity, and distinct threats facing Turkey, the Middle East, Europe, and Latin America. The report also includes several “red herrings”—issues that, despite media attention, are unlikely to pose significant threats or drive instability in the coming year.

Top Risks has an impressive track record for being both early and accurate in its predictions. Eurasia Group’s 2020 Top Risks report, for example, correctly predicted a contested US election as its #1 risk.

Bremmer and Kupchan will host an on-the-record press conference call today, 4 January, at 10:30 a.m. EST/15:30 GMT to discuss the risks and take questions. To participate, please register here.

Below is a summary of all ten Top Risks for 2021. Please click here for the full report.

TOP RISKS 2021

When the world’s most powerful country is as divided as the United States is now, the G-Zero geopolitical recession is sure to deepen. The world needs the leadership and cooperation that an engaged and well-functioning superpower can help provide, because, just as the healthcare response to the coronavirus pandemic defined 2020, the economic response to its lasting damage will define 2021.

#1 – 46*

Following a 2016 Trump victory that many Democrats believe Russia helped him win, Biden’s term opens the era of the asterisk presidency, a time when every Oval Office occupant is seen as illegitimate by roughly half the country—and the lawmakers that election skeptics send to Congress. Most of the risk here is domestic, but the consequences of extreme polarization for democratic legitimacy extend well beyond US borders. Apart from a shared desire to contain China, Republicans and Democrats will disagree sharply—with each other and among themselves—over the objectives of US foreign policy. In addition, the size of Trump’s base, and the broadening of that base to include more minority voters, leaves allies and potential partners wondering whether the next “America First” president and foreign policy are just four years away.

#2 – Long Covid

In 2021, the lingering symptoms of Covid-19 will threaten not just lives but political stability and the global economy. Countries around the world will struggle to meet ambitious vaccination timelines, and the pandemic will leave a legacy of high debt, displaced workers, and lost trust. The distribution of vaccines will divide haves from have nots, both within and among nations, stoking anti-incumbent anger and public unrest in many countries. Some emerging markets will experience a debt crunch this year. With inflation and borrowing costs rising, they’ll have far less room than the US and Europe to cushion Covid’s economic blow.

#3 – Climate: net zero meets G-Zero

Climate policy will move from playground of global cooperation to arena of global competition. Across a range of clean technologies, China’s longstanding industrial policy approach will now face a much more aggressive climate push from Washington. Some parts of the clean energy supply chain will face bifurcation pressures like those seen in 5G. The push for net-zero emissions targets will create enormous opportunities for private capital, especially the growing pool of environmental, social, and governance dollars and euros, but winners and losers will be determined as often by political factors as by market forces.

#4 – US-China tensions broaden

A shared desire in Washington and Beijing for stability in US-China relations will briefly ease headline tensions, but intensifying vaccine diplomacy and climate and tech competition will combine with longstanding frictions in other areas to further complicate their rivalry. Disagreements over trade, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the South China Sea will carry over into 2021. Collectively, these points of dispute will boost the risk of miscalculation and escalation toward crisis.

#5 – Global data reckoning

A slowdown or halt to the free flow of sensitive data across borders will raise costs for companies and disrupt popular apps and internet business models. This risk begins with the US and China, but it doesn’t end there. Even as the data-driven 5G and AI revolutions gain steam, other governments concerned about who is accessing their citizens’ data—and how—will erode the foundation of the open global internet. Business models for AI and other innovative tech sectors will suffer. App bans and other issues will hamper global cooperation on public health and climate challenges.

#6 – Cyber tipping point

There is no single factor that raises the risk of a major disaster in cyberspace in 2021. The digital realm, where any computer or smartphone can become an entry point for hackers and nation states, and criminals act with relative impunity, is too unpredictable for that. Instead, a combination of low-probability but high-impact risks and inexorable technology trends will make 2021 the year that cyber conflict creates unprecedented technological and geopolitical risk in cyberspace.

#7 – (Out in the) cold Turkey

Economic setbacks in 2021 and Turkey’s poor Covid response will leave President Recep Tayyip Erdogan struggling to win back voters disillusioned with his two-decade rule. These dynamics will stoke social tensions, prompt a crackdown against the opposition, and encourage Erdogan to launch more foreign policy adventures to fuel nationalism and distract his supporters. But this year, Turkey’s president won’t have international friends to shield him from the consequences.

#8 – Middle East – low oil takes a toll

Energy-producing countries in the Middle East and North Africa faced a collapse in global energy demand in 2020 that left governments from Algeria to Iran with less cash flowing into their coffers—even as the pandemic sickened citizens and weakened economies. 2021 will be worse, because energy prices will remain low. Many of these governments will cut spending, damaging vulnerable private sectors and fueling unemployment. Reforms will slow, and protests will grow.

#9 – Europe after Merkel

Angela Merkel’s departure later this year after 15 years as chancellor will drive the continent’s top risk in 2021. Europe faces an economic hangover from intensified lockdown restrictions in several countries, and Merkel won’t be there to encourage flexibility in the multilateral response. Without the German leader to serve as a strong and neutral negotiator, diplomatic efforts to resolve energy and territorial disputes in the Eastern Mediterranean will struggle, as will the UN process to address Cyprus issues. The EU position will become more hawkish as France pushes more member states to get tough with Turkey, raising the odds of diplomatic rupture.

#10 – Latin America disappoints

Governments in Latin America face intensified versions of the formidable political, social, and economic problems they were confronting before the pandemic. There will be no large-scale vaccinations until late in the year, and countries are poorly positioned to deal with another Covid wave before then. Political and economic pressures will intensify as Argentina and Mexico hold legislative elections in 2021, and voters in Chile, Ecuador, and Peru vote for president.

RED HERRINGS

Trump’s friends in trouble – Trump-friendly leaders such as Erdogan, Brazil’s Jair Bolsonaro, the UK’s Boris Johnson, and Israel’s Binyamin Netanyahu will engage with the new US president where they can.

Techlash in US – US lawmakers won’t declare war on the tech companies helping to restore post-pandemic growth.

Iran-US confrontation – Ties between the US and Iran will be neither as productive nor destructive as many fear.

***

ABOUT EURASIA GROUP:

Eurasia Group is the world’s leading global political risk research and consulting firm. By providing information and insight on how political developments move markets, we help clients anticipate and respond to instability and opportunities everywhere they invest or do business. Our expertise includes developed and developing countries in every region of the world, specific economic sectors, and the business and investment playing fields of the future. With our best-in-class advisory and consulting offerings and GZERO Media, the Eurasia Group umbrella provides the marketplace with a complete political risk solution. Headquartered in New York, we have offices in Washington, London, San Francisco, Brasilia, Sao Paulo, Singapore, and Tokyo, as well as on-the-ground experts and resources in more than a hundred countries. “Politics first” grounds our work: Politics is the lens through which we view the world, and we are committed to analysis that is free of political bias and the influence of private interests.

MEDIA ENQUIRIES:

Gregory Roth

Director of Communications

Eurasia Group / GZERO Media

roth@eurasiagroup.net

The press release Eurasia Group Publishes Top Risks for 2021 comes from Xinwengao.com press release distribution and journalist media database service in China.

The campaign launched last month with a trip organized by Time Out Shanghai, that brought a group of 30 expats and travel enthusiasts to Suzhou where they explored historical sites like the Suzhou Museum of Inscribed Stone Tablets, took in traditional cultural performances in Suzhou’s classical gardens and on its romantic canals, experienced local life along Shantang Street, enjoyed the outdoors on a hike by Taihu Lake, and more. Several new weekend tour packages departing from Shanghai recently launched as a result of the trip which focus on Suzhou’s architecture and history.

Here are some of the recommendations from those who attended the trip and other foreigners who spend their days in the “City of Culture & Arts.”

Emily Axen, American living in Shanghai

Emily recently attended the nighttime cultural performance held in Master of the Nets Garden and reviews it as a great look into ancient life in Suzhou. She also shares, “I think going to museums with a guide is key. You get so much more information from a guide as a lot of the information is not written in English.”

Christian Wischnewski, German living in Suzhou

According to Chris, Suzhou has a great atmosphere with the perfect mix of history and modernity. He suggests getting out into Suzhou’s beautiful natural areas, including Mudu Old Town, Sanshan Island, and the water town of Tongli. As for a bite to eat? “I really like squirrel-shaped mandarin fish, with the sweet and sour sauce. It’s something really unique that I haven’t seen in more than 60 countries that I have visited until now,” he says.

Robyn Cronje, South African living in Shanghai (IG: @littlebitsofruby)

“Definitely visit the gardens and watch the Kunqu Opera. It is such a great way of storytelling that will leave you feeling like you have experienced a bit of China itself. The boat ride on the canals is also a must. It’s tranquil and really gives you the feeling that you’re in Venice!” Robyn says.

Yunus Emre, Turkish living in Shanghai

“I always enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Suzhou every time I’m there,” says Yunus. He describes the city as “culturally deep” and recommends that visitors take the time to enjoy the Suzhou’s historical side on any trip.

About Suzhou

For more than 2,500 years, Suzhou has been known as a center of arts and culture. Intellectuals, artists, and high profile public figures have long been drawn to the city’s romantic canals and stunning classical gardens, nine of which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Performing arts including the Kunqu Opera and Pingtan storytelling originated in Suzhou, and the city is also important to the design and fashion worlds as a center for silk making and embroidery. In addition to its arts and culture, Suzhou is home to plentiful natural areas that allow for boundless outdoor activities. Visitors seeking Suzhou’s modern side will find five-star hotels, the iconic Lake Jinji, limitless shopping, and China’s largest overwater Ferris Wheel in the upscale and contemporary SIP District. Each year, millions of tourists travel to Suzhou to experience the destination’s more than 400 attractions, ranging from pagodas and temples to historical districts and world-class museums.

Suzhou is located in the center of the Yangtze River Delta, approximately 60 miles west of Shanghai. Suzhou is easily accessible via direct air service from North America and Europe to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG.) and is well connected with nearby cities including Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Nanjing by frequent high speed trains.

For more information on Suzhou, visit TravelToSuzhou.com, and follow the destination on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.

The press release Expats Unlock the #SecretsOfSuzhou Through Cultural & Arts Travel Recommendations comes from Xinwengao.com press release distribution and journalist media database service in China.

UNITS offers commercial and residential customers best-in-class containers and a hassle-free method for moving or storing personal belongings. Currently, UNITS Storage and Service Centers reach over 500 cities throughout the United States.

“We’re incredibly excited to start growing internationally,” UNITS Moving and Portable Storage CEO Michael McAlhany said. “We have no doubt our business model and service offering will translate to success for franchisees across the globe. It is an extremely scalable model with a tremendous ROI that provides both B2B and B2C business opportunities.”

The moving and portable storage industry continues to grow and find success. Even during slower economic times, the need for moving and storage services remains strong. The flexibility of the UNITS Moving and Portable Storage model gives both consumers and businesses a local solution that works with their needs and provides a necessary service during these uncertain times.

As a result of their partnership with World Franchise Associates, there are now UNITS franchise opportunities available across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia. International expansion markets are now available in the following countries and regions: Australia, Cambodia, China, France, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Ireland, KSA, Kuwait, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Philippines, Qatar, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Vietnam, and Scandinavia.

UNITS’ ideal candidates can manage a small team and hold them accountable for the daily activities, with many of the responsibilities able to be handled remotely. UNITS is also looking for empire builders who are looking to grow their portfolio with a proven model of success. While UNITS is expanding internationally, there are key markets still available in major metropolitan areas across the U.S.

To learn more about franchise opportunities with UNITS Moving and Portable Storage, visit https://www.unitsfranchisegroup.com/.

ABOUT UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage

Established in 2003, UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage is an Inc. 5000-ranked franchise that was founded by Michael McAlhany during the emergence of the moving and portable storage industry. The company’s mission was to provide personal customer service and supply the most innovative and highest quality equipment. Nationwide UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage are locally-owned and operated and familiar with the communities they serve. UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage offers high-quality constructed containers featuring barn-style doors and all-steel construction. The UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage container is clean, weather-resistant, spacious, and available in 16-ft. lengths. The UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage robotic delivery system is the most technologically advanced in the industry, virtually eliminating any shift in contents when lifting containers on and off transport vehicles. The container may be placed in a UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage service center or at the customers’ desired location, always at ground level for easy access. The national network of UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage and Service Centers currently services over 500 cities in North America with additional locations scheduled to open in 2020 and 2021.

The press release UNITS Moving and Portable Storage Expands Internationally comes from Xinwengao.com press release distribution and journalist media database service in China.

“A new age requires a new voice. Climate & Capital Media is all about the emerging climate economy,” said founder Peter McKillop. “By bringing together people and capital with a shared mission of solving climate change, we represent a new kind of media organization that’s dedicated to a more equitable and sustainable economy.”

As a membership service, Climate&Capital will publish content, host events, and manage a directory, all with the goal of accelerating climate action at scale. Unlike other publications, Climate&Capital focuses exclusively on the climate economy, with an independent editorial policy that emphasizes conversations and engagement among the doers, the seekers, and the market influencers of the climate economy.

“We need bold and meaningful action on climate change,” said co-founder David Garrison. “And to move people and capital center stage, we need new ideas, new models, and new kinds of connections. “Our goal is for Climate&Capital to stand at the center of the emerging climate economy — to be a trusted source as we lead the transformations we all want to see.”

In addition to the Ten to Watch feature, recent stories published on Climate&Capital include a leadership discussion with Matthew Weatherley-White, a look at New Zealand’s ground-breaking adoption of the Taskforce on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) guidelines, a quick take on how luxury fashion is embracing climate finance, and a podcast interview of journalist-author Jonathan Alter about what Joe Biden should learn from Jimmy Carter in pushing his climate agenda.

McKillop was formerly a Managing Director at BlackRock, where he was responsible for leading the firm’s strategic communications and messaging for its iShares ETF and Indexing business. He has also held senior communication leadership positions at J.P. Morgan, KKR, UBS, and Bank of America. Before entering the financial communications field, Peter was a senior correspondent and bureau chief for Newsweek in New York, Tokyo, and Hong Kong.

Garrison has advised leaders on the most difficult challenges of building meaningful brands. He previously founded the Brytemoore Group, a brand consulting firm focused on bold transformations and was a founding principal of Edelman Consulting, the former management strategy consulting arm of global communications firm Edelman. David previously held senior marketing and strategy roles in music, healthcare, and agencies.

Editors include:

Blair Palese (Global Climate Editor) — co-founder and former CEO of 350.org Australia, and previously communications director for Greenpeace International, Greenpeace USA and The Body Shop.

Howard Manly (Climate Justice Editor) — a veteran journalist who has spent most of his award-winning print and television career focused on the intersection of race, politics, and society, including as a writer for Newsweek, the Boston Globe, the Philadelphia Inquirer, and the Bay State Banner, one of the leading black newspapers in America. Manly is a senior fellow at the Charles Hamilton Houston Institute for Race and Justice at Harvard Law School.

John Howell (Climate Finance Weekly Editor) — co-founder, editorial director, and chief of thought leadership for 3BL Media, for which he managed all original editorial content, wrote, and edited newsletters, and created the Brands Taking Stands initiative.

Frank Gibney Jr. (Editorial Director) — a senior journalist, writer, and editor who worked for decades as a correspondent, bureau chief, and editor for Newsweek and TIME around the U.S. and East Asia, writing extensively about Japan, China, and Vietnam, and always business.

Jyotika Bindra (South Asia Editor) — a writer based in New Delhi who was previously a fashion manager with responsibility for conducting sustainability workshops with employees regarding the eco-friendly disposal of fashion materials.

Tom Fortier (Director of Operations) — a long-time client service and product management leader, having spent 20 years in the financial technology industry, including years with Thomson Reuters and Nasdaq.

Climate&Capital is also supported by a group of advisors from across the worlds of business, finance, and media including:

Kofi Appenteng — President of the Africa-American Institute (AAI)

Ashley Allen Jones — Founder of i2 Capital

Elan J Blutinger — Managing Director of Alpine Consolidated

Adi Ignatius — Editor-in-Chief of Harvard Business Review (HBR)

Erika Karp — Founder and CEO of Cornerstone Capital

Marcela Shine — Head of Community at Ureeka

Climate&Capital is offering premium subscribers a 90-day free trial. To subscribe, please go to https://www.climateandcapitalmedia.com/membership-account/membership-levels/.

About Climate & Capital Media

Climate & Capital Media is a global media organization that provides news, information, and connections to bring together people and capital to solve climate change. Its news service develops engaging, well-reported profiles that deliver practical investment and leadership insights on the fast-growing community of businesses addressing global warming and building a sustainable climate economy. Learn more about Climate&Capital at https://www.climateandcapitalmedia.com.

The press release Climate & Capital Media Launches By Introducing Ten of the Most Promising Leaders in the New Climate Economy comes from Xinwengao.com press release distribution and journalist media database service in China.

Hong Kong, China, July 7, 2017 /Xinwengao.com/ - South African Tourism embarks on a China trade workshop roadshow to play a critical facilitation role for travel business exchanges between South African inbound operators and product suppliers in Greater China, stopping through Beijing on June 26, then Shanghai on June 28, and Hong Kong on June 30, 2017.

These travel trade workshops enable South African suppliers to showcase their products, and serve as a valuable networking opportunity allowing not only for the creation and consolidation of new business and trade opportunities, but to highlight the endless offerings that the ‘Rainbow Nation’ has to offer as a prime tourism destination.

“With over 117,144 visitors to South Africa from China in the last financial year, representing an astonishing 38 per cent year on year increase, we are focusing more effort to facilitate trade partnerships and opportunities for business growth this year,” said Mr. Bradley Brouwer, President, Asia Pacific, South African Tourism. “And, as you know, our nation offers the most authentic travel experiences and unforgettable adventures in the world, so we’re excited to share those with you all.”

The workshops held by South African Tourism assume a trade business focus, with a multi-sensory impact to immerse guests, amongst whom are regional tourism authorities and key trade and product partners.

South African Tourism supports a multitude of tourism enterprises, creating approximately 700,000 new jobs and playing a major role in South Africa’s economic future; and an additional 300,000 more jobs will be added to bring direct employment to 1 million, helping transform their products into extraordinary experiences that keep visitors coming back to the country.

This year, South African Tourism is driving its consumer campaign promising exciting moments for consumers inspired by the incomparable sense of excitement, joy, and amazement that await Chinese visitors in South Africa.

The beautifully diverse country of South Africa offers Chinese visitors a whole new world of compelling experiences combining stunning wildlife and ocean safaris, pristine nature, city lifestyle, affordable luxury and adrenaline-fueled adventures from mountain hiking to shark cage-diving.

As the unrivaled adventure capital of the world, South Africa is a leader in responsible tourism, and famous for its year-round sunshine, vibrant local customs, and timeless world heritage.

Special conservation areas of the ocean protect the environment and its invaluable wildlife population from the debilitating effects of habitat destruction. Travelers can go on exciting newly launched ocean safaris to witness the largest breeding colony of African penguins in the world found on St Croix Island, or get up close with thousands of bottlenose dolphins in Port Elizabeth in Nelson Mandela Bay.

Other must-see destinations and experiences on many vacation itineraries include game viewing in the famous Kruger National Park, and day trips through the picturesque Garden Route between the gorgeous Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, through ancient forests, lakes, secluded bays and coves, mountain hideaways, and historic towns steeped in culture and tradition.

Now reaching its 7th year of sustained growth despite economic slowdown, South Africa recorded 13% growth in the international tourist arrivals as the sector brings in about 9% to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product. Through the National Tourism Sector Strategy, South Africa aims to achieve over 200% growth in direct contribution to reach R302 Billion in 2026.

South Africa is also implementing a transformation plan developed under the guidance of the Tourism Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Charter Council, to put together a framework to maximize empowerment of young black entrepreneurs, bring in existing black tourism operators, and strengthen market access for black-owned enterprises.

Furthermore, the Rainbow Nation has entered into a partnership with the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) to establish a Transformation Fund, a combination of grant funding and debt financing used to unlock capital investment in tourism and to support small to medium enterprises in expanding their existing products. The fund is currently capitalized to an amount of R120 million with the aim of building it to R360 million in the medium term.

With two more visa facilitation centres opening by the end of 2017, and a non-stop flight 3 times a week between Beijing and Johannesburg with Air China, and the daily flights with South African Airways out of Hong Kong creates an increasingly seamless travel experience for Chinese visitors.

South Africa is set to continue growing its partnerships and welcoming both travelers and business opportunities this year, and the roadshow is opening the doors to truly authentic adventures and opportunities to bridge the space between the nations.

For further information about South Africa, please visit SA Tourism China’s official website: www.southafricantourism.cn

The press release South African Tourism Opens the Door to Authentic Adventures Travel Trade Roadshow Brings Valuable Workshops to 3 Metropolitan Cities in China comes from Xinwengao.com press release distribution and journalist media database service in China.

Hong Kong, February 7, 2017 /Xinwengao.com/ - The 15th Hong Kong – Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF) today unveiled its lineup of 25 outstanding film projects to be presented from 13 to 15 March 2017. The projects were selected out of over 350 submissions from 14 different countries and regions, including Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Taiwan.

This year’s selections include projects by young directors developing their first feature films, with an unprecedented increase in the number of women filmmakers. Most of the films are family-driven projects that touch on contemporary social issues, while others explore topics such as non-traditional families, marriages in upheaval, and the complexities of parent-child relationships. Shortlisted projects this year also include two genres not usually seen at HAF: science fiction and gothic thriller.

As one of the most recognized film-financing platforms in Asia, HAF continues its role in connecting filmmakers and their upcoming film projects with internationally prominent film financiers, producers, bankers, distributors, buyers, and funders for potential co-production ventures.

Five Hong Kong Projects to Be Presented

This year, the shortlisted projects include five from Hong Kong: veteran filmmaker Derek CHIU Sung-kee’s No.1 Chung Ying Street, a drama that examines the 1967 riots in Hong Kong; Sunny CHAN’s Man on the Dragon, a comedy-drama about five middle-age men who compete in a dragon boat championship to regain the braveness and passion of lives; Impossible Split, from TOM Chung-sing, which tells the inspiring story of bowling athlete WU Siu-hong, who achieved world championship status despite being haunted by a fatal disease. The film is produced by award-winning director Adam WONG, whose films The Way We Dance and She Remembers, He Forgets both received critical acclaim, and whose project Trains in the Night was presented at last year’s HAF.

The Goddess, from Sobel CHAN Ka-lok, pays homage to classic 1930s Chinese films and focuses on the issues of Hong Kong’s public-education system, the lives of Mainland immigrants and conflicts between mother and daughter. CHAN’s League of HK Movie Heroes was selected as one of the five finalists of the HAF/FOX Chinese Film Development Award at the 11th HAF in 2013. Completing the lineup of Hong Kong projects is Forget You, Still Love You?, about a couple whose troubled marriage finds focus again after a husband is diagnosed with a devastating illness, from co-directors Kenneth LAI Siu-Kwan and Paul SZE Pak-Lam, both of whom participated in last year’s HAF with the thriller Hypnotize the Jury.

Speaking on behalf of HAF, Mr. Jacob WONG, Curator of the Hong Kong International Film Festival Society and Director of the HAF commented, “We are thrilled to receive HAF submissions worldwide with extremely high quality, offering distinct perspectives on a diversity of vibrant topics. The review process is, as expected, arduous yet exhilirating, and we are very proud of the dedication and persistence of our creative film talents.”

Women Directors Shining at the 15th HAF

Nearly half of the 25 selections consist of projects from female directors, including Femme Fatale, a dark comedy about two women whose parallel lives touch and collide, the first feature from Japanese documentary filmmaker MIYAKE Kyoko; and Made in Bangladesh, the first-ever HAF project from Bangladesh, about garment workers’ rights, from Rubaiyat HOSSAIN.

Other projects include Pawns With No Return, a touching story about fate bringing together an old man and a young boy, from CHEN Yi-Jung of Taiwan; I AM A BANANA!, an East-meets-West cross-cultural romantic comedy, from Honey B SINGH; and Rainbow Mountain, the second feature from Degena Yun of China, a drama about two Mongolian women from different generations whose lives cross paths throughout time and history. Degena’s critically acclaimed first feature, A Simple Goodbye, was presented at the 13th HAF and awarded The Spirit of Asia Award in Tokyo International Film Festival 2015.

Two more documentaries from women directors include The Grassland of Narangerel, which examines environmental challenges in Inner Mongolia, from YING Weiwei of China; and the Israeli-German co-production Leftover Women, from co-directors Shosh SHLAM and Hilla MEDALIA.

Exploring Family Dynamics and Science Fiction Genres

Family dynamics come into focus for several projects this year, including Ten Thousand Happiness from Chinese director Johnny MA, in which the sudden divorce of grandfather from an elite family in China sets off a chain of reaction, forcing each member to evaluate their own relationships with love and happiness; Indian filmmaker Shashwati TALUKDAR’s The New Wife, a Himalayan gothic thriller tale about a young bride’s discovery of the secrets harboured by her respectable new family.

The Asadas, the third feature from NAKANO Ryota of Japan, a drama with humor based on an original story inspired by the photographer Masashi Asada; and Chantou, Australian director Grant SCICLUNA’s gay-family drama about a couple who discover that their adopted Cambodian daughter is a victim of human trafficking.

Other projects include Restore Point from Robert HLOZ, a science-fiction murder mystery set in the future. It is the first sole Czech-Republic project feature to be presented at HAF. Also, an as-yet-untitled project commissioned by the Nara International Film Festival in Japan from director Ida PANAHANDEH and Japanese producer KAWASE Naomi, will be a free modern adaptation of a work by Shakespeare.

The HAF/FOX Project Award Presented to Drifting Lives

Sharing the same vision to encourage quality Chinese-language projects, HAF is pleased to continue its collaboration with FOX International Productions (FIP) and FOX Networks Group (FNG) Asia to present the “HAF/FOX Project Award” to suspense murder-mystery. Drifting Lives, from first-time director Danlly LI of China. The project will receive a cash award of US$10,000 (approx. HK$78,000) and a Development Contract with FOX. The award has established since 2012 to develop Chinese feature films with regional appeal, through providing support and nurture for promising scripts.

Ms. Cora YIM, SVP, Head of Chinese Entertainment and Territory Head of Hong Kong, FOX Networks Group Asia said, “With the support of HAF, we have the privilege to work with up-and-coming creative talent and being introduced to a new generation of emerging talent. We are absolutely thrilled to identify the potential cinematic storytellers who offer unique perspectives of Chinese-language cinema.” As one of the judges, Ms. Xian LI, Director of Production, Creative Development and Global Production of FOX International Productions also said that Asian cinema, especially Chinese-language cinema is one of the most significant markets for FOX. “We look forward to working with more talented filmmakers in this region to create exciting high-quality films.”

Extending Awards and New Partnerships

The 15th HAF will present a total of ten awards, amounting to HK$1,372,000 (approx. US$176,700) in cash and value in-kind. HAF is also proud to announce our new sponsor, mm2 Asia Limited to present an award to encourage and support Chinese-language film projects with a cash prize of HK$100,000 (approx. US$12,900).

“mm2 excavates stories in various Chinese speaking territories, turns them into movies with both artistic and commercial sense,” Mr. Melvin ANG, Chairman of mm2 Asia Limited said. “Through collaborating with HAF, the leading film platform in Asia, we are able to meet and support new pioneers in the Asian film industry.”

HAF is also delighted to extend collaboration with iQIYI for the third year with an award to encourage and support young film talents from Chinese-speaking territories. One cash award of HK$100,000 (approx. US$12,900) will be presented to an outstanding Chinese-language feature film project with commercial qualities. Other award sponsors include Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival, China Film Foundation — Wutianming Fund For Young Talents, G2D Co. Ltd., Paris Coproduction Village, White Light Studio and Wouter Barendrecht Film Foundation.

Work in Progress Laboratory

In addition, HAF creates the “Work in Progress Laboratory” as a significant new initiative to help directors and producers securing post-production funds through meetings with distribution agents and film festival programmers. Representatives from shortlisted projects will be invited to present their work at HAF. The WIP Lab will assist interested industry professionals to set up individual meetings with them to obtain further collaboration details. The shortlisted projects will be announced later in February.

Media and Guest Accreditation for HAF

Journalists worldwide are cordially invited to join this premier film financing platform in Asia. Media accreditation will be opened for online application at http://society.hkiff.org.hk/en/press_accreditation_media.php from 23 January 2017 to 5 March 2017. Successful applicants will be given access to HAF, in addition to joining our official networking events, screenings, seminars or other special activities.

Film financiers, investors and participants can register and schedule appointments with filmmakers of the shortlisted projects at http://www.haf.org.hk/guest.php before 5 March 2017.

A complete list of the selected projects for the 15th HAF and HAF/FOX Project Award can be found in Appendix 1. For more information about HAF, please visit the official website at http://www.haf.org.hk/ and HAF Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/hafhkiffs/.

About The Hong Kong – Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF)

The Hong Kong – Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF) is widely recognized as an established film financing platform in Asia. The HAF brings Asian filmmakers with upcoming film projects to Hong Kong for co-production ventures with top film financiers, producers, bankers, distributors and buyers. Attracting more than 1,000 filmmakers and financiers from at least 35 countries and regions, around 25 to 30 projects are selected annually to participate in the three-day event.

HAF has partnered with international organisations to provide a range of opportunities to participants. Previous partners include iQIYI (China), Fox International Productions (Greater China) (US), Cinemart (the Netherlands), Asian Project Market (South Korea), Golden Horse Film Project Promotion (Taiwan), New Cinema Network (Italy) and others. Cash and in-kind awards to the value of around US$150,000 are made with support from Create Hong Kong and Film Development Fund among others.

Past participants include China’s JIA Jiangke, JIANG Wen, LU Chuan and NING Hao; Hong Kong’s Peter CHAN, Stanley KWAN, Ann HUI, Fruit CHAN and PANG Ho-cheung; Taiwan’s TSAI Ming-Liang, WEI Te-Sheng, CHUNG Mong-Hong and Leon DAI; Japan’s KORE-EDA Hirokazu, KUROSAWA Kiyoshi, KAWASE Naomi and IWAI Shunji; South Korea’s PARK Chan-wook, KIM Jee-woon, BONG Joon-ho and IM Sang-soo; as well as Thailand’s Apichatpong WEERASETHAKUL, Ekachai UEKRONGTHAM, Nonzee NIMIBUTR and Pen-ek RATANARUANG.

About The Hong Kong International Film Festival Society Limited (HKIFFS)

Uniting the World through Film

The Hong Kong International Film Festival Society (HKIFFS) is a charitable, non-profit and non-governmental organisation dedicated to the discovery and promotion of creativity in the art and culture of film.

Committed to the development of a vibrant film culture in Hong Kong and Asia, the Society organises two annual flagship events in March and April: “Hong Kong International Film Festival (HKIFF)” and “Hong Kong – Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF).”  “HKIFF Cine Fan”, a monthly screening programme features a variety of curated contemporary, retrospective and thematic showcases was also launched in April 2013.

Through its year-round programmes, the mission of the Society is to strengthen global appreciation of Asian and Chinese film culture and to promote inspiring films from around the world, enriching the cultural life of Hong Kong. Passionately believing in the power of films to unite cultures and generations, the HKIFFS is devoted to giving thousands of film lovers around the region direct access to the world’s most inspired films all year round.

About FOX International Productions

Fox International Productions (FIP) builds upon 20th Century Fox’s industry-leading international motion picture activities and upon parent company 21st Century Fox’s unparalleled global media reach by aligning all the company’s international film productions under one banner. FIP also complements Fox’s worldwide film releases with films sourced through partnerships with international producers, filmmakers, financiers, and strategic production & distribution agreements.

About FOX Networks Group

FOX Networks Group (FNG) is 21st Century FOX’s international multi-media business. We develop, produce and distribute 300+ wholly- and majority-owned entertainment, sports, factual and movie channels in 45 languages across Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa. FNG’s core channel brands include FOX, FOX Sports, FOX Life, FOX+ and National Geographic Channel. FNG’s movie channels include FOX Movies, FOX Movies Premium and SCM (formerly Star Chinese Movies). Our non-linear brands include FOX Play, FOX Play+ and Nat Geo Play. These networks and their related mobile, non-linear and high- definition extensions, reach over 1.825 billion cumulative households worldwide. In addition, FNG owns and operates two production studios and produces thousands of local programming hours for its wholly owned channels and third parties.

The press release The 15th Hong Kong – Asia Film Financing Forum Project Announcement comes from Xinwengao.com press release distribution and journalist media database service in China.

Zhuhai, China, December 22, 2015 /Xinwengao.com/ - AccorHotels, is continuing the rapid expansion of its upscale Pullman brand with the rebranding announcement of Novotel Zhuhai in the Guangdong Province, which adds a further 268 rooms to Pullman’s network in Greater China.

The rebranding of Novotel Zhuhai to Pullman will see the hotel joining the Pullman network on December 19, 2015 exactly a year after the hotel’s official opening.

“We are excited to welcome the hotel to the Pullman family, one of the fastest-growing brands in AccorHotels’ luxury and upscale segment since its launch in 2007 amid continuously robust demand from both property owners and travellers,” said Paul Richardson, Chief Operating Officer, AccorHotels Greater China. “The rebranding of the property is part of AccorHotels’ on-going global endeavor to further align with its brand architecture to ensure a more consistent brand experience for its guests.”

As one of China’s five special economic zones with close proximity to Macau, Hong Kong and Shenzhen, Zhuhai is seeing a notable rise in demand for upscale hospitality. The Pullman brand strikes a perfect balance between performance and enjoyment, business and leisure, that focuses on hyper-connectivity well-being, efficiency and performance.

Located in Gongbei along the borders of Macau and 5 minutes away from the bus station that connects Guangzhou, Jiangmen and Zhongshan, Pullman Zhuhai is part of the Midtown commercial complex offering guests with numerous shopping and dining options around the area.

The hotel features 268 well-appointed guest rooms, three restaurants, a lobby and an executive lounge, two ballrooms, five meeting rooms and a chapel located at the garden terrace – a multifunctional specialty restaurant and event space, as well as recreational facilities including a fitness center, sauna and steam rooms, an outdoor pool and a bar for an evening chill out.

The latest rebranding will add to the growing Pullman network of 25 hotels in 22 cities with another 69 hotels in the globe.

Both ownership and management of the hotel remain unchanged after the rebranding.

Address: No. 2029 Jiuzhou West Avenue, Zhuhai, 519000, P.R.China
Tel: +86 (756) 899 8688

Pullman, in style upscale hotels connecting performance with enjoyment
Pullman Hotels & Resorts strike the perfect balance for a new generation of hyper-connected and sophisticated travelers. Whether connecting performance and enjoyment, efficiency and well-being, business and leisure – it’s always patently Pullman. Pullman appeals to new professional travelers, the Pullman ‘global nomads’, featuring best-in-class business and fitness facilities, functional contemporary design and balanced food and beverage. Pullman is AccorHotels international upscale brand, with a network counting more than 95 hotels & resorts in Europe, Africa, Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Latin America.

The press release Novotel Zhuhai Rebrands To Upscale Pullman In Southern China comes from Xinwengao.com press release distribution and journalist media database service in China.

Singapore, November 11, 2014 /Xinwengao.com/ - The Towards 5G: LTE Plus – Internet of Everything Global Summit 2014 will kick off in Taipei from 12-13 November 2014. Co-organized with ITRI & III, Ministry of Economic Affairs, this premier thought leadership event for the telecom sector, will convene all operators and mobile networks providers, including new players in the Internet of Things space.

The sheer breath of mobile technologies and myriad of new approaches to its use has expanded greatly now that 4G LTE has been deployed. Operators must stay on top of how to deploy these innovations to roll out new businesses and services to meet new customer demand. With the advent of 5G, telcos, research institutes and manufacturers have to keep abreast of advances in this area, and position themselves & profit from the next technological disruption.

Hot topics at this year’s Summit include: Optimizing from the new LTE rollouts and beyond; SDN and mobile internet monetization for everyone and everything; Internet of Things: Security challenges telecom operators face; The Driveless Car and Digital Logistics; Advances in 5G M2M; D2D communications in Taiwan; Global 5G developments and advances; 5G Small Cell Advances: Implications in developing 5G & IoT services; 5G Plastic Cell technological advances; 5G Small Cell Backhaul architecture; Latest developments in NDD technologies; The future of 5G in the Asia Pacific region.

Top-notch speakers at the Summit include organisations from: BOST (Executive Yuan), Chunghwa Telecom, ITRI, Cisco Systems, SK Telecom, Korea 5G Forum Global Alliance Subcommittee, Advanced Telematic Systems GmbH, National Communications Commission, IEEE 802.16 Working Group, Irdeto, Global Mobile Corporation, Advantech and DG Connect (European Commission).

Cisco Systems, Inc, the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet is the Summit’s Gold Sponsor. Mr Frank Bradbury, Head of Global Mobile Broadband Engineering, will be providing the latest insights into SDN & Mobile Internet monetisation for everyone and everything.

Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd, a market leader in Taiwan mobile market with about 11 million subscribers is the Summit’s Silver Sponsor.

The Summit is co-organized with the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), Institute for Information Industry (III) & 5G Technology Program Office (GO5) with advisory support from the Department of Industrial Technology, Ministry of Economic Affairs.

Maggie Tan, CEO of Magenta Global, the co-organiser of the Summit commented: “This Summit brings together both carriers and equipment manufacturers in the 4G & the Internet of Things arena to discuss the latest developments and innovations & how devices and applications should communicate via mobile networks. The growth of the Internet of Things & M2M market creates many challenges for operators. This Summit is therefore very timely.”

The Summit will be held at the Taipei Garden Hotel. Media Contact:
Ms Merilynn Choo
Marketing Executive
Tel: +65 6391 2549
Email: merilynn@magenta-global.com.sg

About Magenta Global, Singapore – Co-organizer
Magenta Global is a premier independent business media company that provides pragmatic and relevant information to government & business executives and professionals worldwide. The organization provides the opportunity to share thought-provoking insights, exchange ideas on the latest industry trends and technological developments with thought leaders and business peers. With a strong focus in emerging economies especially in Africa, Middle East & Central Asia, Central & South America, Magenta Global works in partnership with both the public & private sectors.

About ITRI – Co-organizer
ITRI has 3 mission statements – to expedite the development of new industrial technology, to aid in the process of upgrading industrial technology techniques & to establish future industrial technology. However, in order to face a new economic era & serving as a nation’s premiere technology research institute, ITRI must transform Taiwan’s research capability from a “follower” to a “pioneer” in order to provide major advantage and opportunities for domestic industries.

About Cisco Systems, Inc – Gold Sponsor
Cisco Systems, Inc, the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet, was founded in 1984 by a small group of computer scientists from Stanford University. Today, with more than 71,000 employees, Cisco has 380 global sites doing business in more than 165 countries and remains committed to creating networks that are smarter, thanks to built-in intelligent network services; faster, in their ability to perform at ever-increasing speeds; and more durable, with a generational approach to an evolutionary infrastructure.

To deliver differentiated value to customers and partners in Taiwan through its unique products and services, Cisco first set up a local branch in Taiwan in March, 1994. Three years later the country’s regional office was formally established in March, 1997. Later Cisco further extended into the local market with the establishment of its southern Taiwan branch in April, 1998 in response to the rapid market growth.

As the world’s leading IT company, Cisco never forgets its role in the economical development of Taiwan. To help foster educational and professional opportunities, Cisco Taiwan founded the Cisco Networking Academy Program, dedicated to providing students with the training and resources they need to design, build, and maintain computer networks.

About Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd – Silver Sponsor?
Originated from a business unit of the Directorate General of Telecommunications, Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd. (“Chunghwa” or “the Company”) was officially established as a state-owned company on July 1, 1996 as part of the Republic of China government’s restructuring efforts to liberalize and privatize the telecommunications industry. Chunghwa started trading on the Taiwan Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “2412” in October 2000 and on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “CHT” in July 2003. In August 2005, Chunghwa became a privatized company when the government ownership declined to less than 50%. Today, Chunghwa is the largest integrated telecommunication services provider in Taiwan.

In Taiwan mobile market, Chunghwa have about 11 million subscribers currently. It’s already market leading position is strengthened as a result of its launch of the 4G LTE mobile broadband services on 29 May 2014. It is the first commercial 4G network in Taiwan. In October 2013, the company has acquired the largest amount of bandwidth with 2x35MHz including most sought after slot at 1800MHz and two slots currently held for 2G services. It helps ensure the company has the potential to offer high speed 4G services over LTE technology, and also maintain 2G services for customers.

The press release Towards 5G: LTE + and IoE Summit to kick off this November in Taipei comes from Xinwengao.com press release distribution and journalist media database service in China.

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Shanghai, China (February 17, 2011) /Xinwengao.com/ — Pullman, an upscale five-star hotel brand under Accor SA specifically designed for today’s sophisticated business and leisure travelers, is pleased to announce the opening of Pullman Xiamen Powerlong. The 295-room, stylish-looking building, one of the newest landmark developments on the fast-evolving skyline of the southeastern coastal city, is the latest addition to Pullman’s Greater China portfolio which now stands at 13 operating hotels. A further 6 Pullman hotels are scheduled to open in China this year.
Xiamen, a long-time popular leisure getaway on the southern coast of Fujian Province, is only a ferry-ride away from Taiwan-administered Jinmen Island and which is best known for its beautiful scenery and tree-lined beaches, is becoming a rapidly-burgeoning events destination in the country. Ideally situated in the heart of the CBD area with convenient access to business, commercial and entertainment hubs around the city, Pullman Xiamen Powerlong is set to bring discerning business and leisure travelers a new level of hospitality characterized by upscale amenities and bespoke services.

“The opening of Pullman Xiamen Powerlong represents a significant moment for Pullman as the first for the brand in Fujian Province and establishes Accor’s second hotel in the city,” said Sam Shih, Chairman and Chief Operating Officer of Accor Greater China. “The Pullman hotel brand is being very well received by hotel owners and developers which is leading to the rather extraordinary expansion that is being achieved in the country.”

Ideal city centre location
Perfectly located at the fringe of Bailuzhou Park and Yundang Lake, the hotel enjoys easy access to Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport – which is about 20 minutes by car – and the city’s major railway station is only 3 kilometres away from the hotel. Popular tourist spots such as the Buddhist Nanputuo Temple and Xiamen University – which is widely recognized as one of the most picturesque and romantic college campuses in China – are within a short drive of the hotel. Xiamen International Conference & Exhibition Center, a major business venue in the city, is only about 10 minutes’ drive from the hotel.

New standard set for lodging business
The Pullman Xiamen Powerlong offers 280 well-appointed guestrooms as well as 15 suites, including one Presidential unit. Ranging in size from 27 to 145 square meters, all rooms and suites have been exquisitely designed to offer guests a true escape from the urban buzz. The hotel features Pullman signature bedding and linen, Roger & Gallet deluxe amenities, as well as modern conveniences such as flat screen LCD TV sets with multi-channel cable and multi-media connectivity in all rooms and suites. Nespresso coffee machines are provided in deluxe and executive rooms and suites and guests in executive rooms and suites will enjoy iPhone/iPad docking stations.

Culinary pleasure offered in a refined way
The Pullman Xiamen Powerlong provides selected options for exquisite dining for visiting travelers and locals alike. Chi, the hotel’s all day dining restaurant, serves international cuisine for all meal services. Dragon Tales, a modern Chinese restaurant, offers the finest cuisine that is pre-dominantly from the southern region with seafood specialities from local waters. Eleven elegantly decorated private rooms with unparalleled lake view are perfect choices for those who seek to impress honored guests. Cha – which has an extensive tea and coffee menu in addition to cool martinis, cocktails and fine wines – is located off the hotel lobby.

Perfect venue for conferences and events
With a premium address in the CBD area, the Pullman Xiamen Powerlong is poised to become a hot venue in the city for both corporate meetings and social events. Nearly 2,500 square metres of meeting and event space including a 950-square-meter ballroom – one of the city’s best equipped in technology – are offered by the hotel, making it an ideal option for both high-profile conferences and events as well as small social activities and parties.

Refreshment of body and soul
A gym with state-of-the-art equipment, an 18-meter-long indoor swimming pool and a lifestyle spa with six private therapy rooms, together with other refreshing amenities such as sauna and Turkish bath, will allow guests to renew their body, mind and spirit and achieve ultimate wellbeing and comfort.

Opening packages
The Pullman Xiamen Powerlong is offering special promotional rates of RMB550 / room night on Superior Rooms to celebrate its opening from now until April 30 2012. (Price is subject to 15% surcharge and 4% city tax.)
Opening packages include free upgrade to Deluxe Room, 50% discount on breakfast, RMB150 Credit for food and beverage, complimentary broadband and Wi-Fi internet access, and complimentary access to gym, sauna and swimming pool. Indulge in Executive Club rooms for only RMB 130 extra and then you can enjoy special privileges.

About Pullman
Pullman is Accor’s upscale hotel brand designed with the requirements of business women and men in mind.
Located in the main regional and international cities, Pullman hotels provide an extensive range of tailored services, access to groundbreaking technologies, and “Co-Meeting” – a new approach to organizing meetings, seminars and high-end incentives. At Pullman hotels, business travelers can choose between being independent or choosing help from our staff around the clock.
By the end of 2011, the Pullman network will include 70 hotels across Europe, Africa, Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Latin America. In time, we anticipate a network of over 150 establishments around the world. Further information concerning Pullman hotels is available on website http://www.pullmanhotels.com.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Ada Xu
  Pullman Xiamen Powerlong
  +86 (0)592 518 8888

  Mabel Liu
  Accor Greater China
  +86(0) 21 6119 9833

The press release Pullman Extends Greater China Presence Further With the Opening of Pullman Xiamen Powerlong comes from Xinwengao.com press release distribution and journalist media database service in China.

During the recent Covidien FY12 Kick-Off Meeting held at the InterContinental Beijing Beichen the Hotel General Manager, Daniel Arbenz, introduced a 12 km run through the scenic Olympic Forest Park, along the rivers and gardens of the Olympic Green and around the Bird’s Nest National Stadium, to some of the more athletic delegates and their guest, inspirational speaker and adventurer David Grier, pairing up fitness, authentic sounds and sights and shared memories from the Olympic Games.

David Grier is introduced as inspiration speaker, culinary chef and extreme adventurer from Cape Town South Africa. He has run the 4,200 km length of the Great Wall in 98 days and his last challenge was to paddle the Mozambique Channel, run the length of Madagascar Island and then paddled and kite-surfed back to Africa with a distance of 4,000 km in 4 month. He established the “Miles for Smiles Foundation” raising funds through adventure racing to perform corrective surgery on children born with cleft lips and palates. As a humanitarian he has shaped his adventure and challenge experiences into a series of inspirational talks, where his message of hope and “making a difference” in peoples’ lives through change, positivity, the right attitude, recognizing opportunity and never giving up inspires companies all over the world.

“I was very honored to run with David,” comments Daniel Arbenz, ” we had a good and steady pace combined with a good talk about the essence of life and I instantly understood what makes listening to David so fascinating and I look forward to use his energy to inspire my team.”

About InterContinental Beijing Beichen
Recognized as the only award winning international luxury hotel in the north part of Beijing, InterContinental Beijing Beichen stands out for its scenic location next to the National Olympic Stadium and the dramatic Water Cube with easy access to Airport, Great Wall, all historical sightseeing spots and major business centers.

Located at the edge of the Olympic Forest Park, the hotel is interconnected with the China National Convention Center (CNCC), one of Asia’s largest convention centers. A sleek architectural masterpiece of steel and glass, the hotel combines sophisticated meeting infrastructure, a choice of 3 restaurants and bars and relaxation options to perfectly cover the needs of international and local meeting and exhibition delegates and designated business travelers. The contemporary yet luxurious rooms are setting the perfect backdrop for a rich and authentic experience with spectacular views of the blue Water Cube. This perfect experience is complemented with attentive services and friendly staff that make the guest feel privileged to be “in the know”.

InterContinental Beijing Beichen is award wining since hotel opening from 2008. The hotel awarded Certificate of Excellence by Tripadvisor, Luxury Hotel by World Luxury Hote Awards, Asia TOP 100 Hotels by Conde Nast, China TOP 100 Hotels by Travel+ Leisure, Best Business Hotel by Voyage, Best Design Hotel by Insider, Best Business Hotel by HC360.com, Best of the Best by Gafencu Men, Golden Pillow Award of China Hotels – Best New Opening Business Hotel in North China by 21st Century Business Herald, Best Mice Facilities and Services Hotel by Travel Weekly China and Best Wedding Hotel by Life Style.

About InterContinental Hotels and Resorts
InterContinental Hotels and Resorts has 168 hotels, located in more than 60 countries with local insight that comes from over 60 years of experience. At InterContinental we believe that superior, understated service and outstanding facilities are important, but what makes us truly different, is the genuine interest we show in our guests. Our desire is to help guests make the most of their time. We connect our well-travelled guests to what’s special about a destination, by sharing our knowledge so they enjoy authentic experiences that will enrich their lives and broaden their outlook. For more information, visit www.intercontinental.com.

About IHG
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) is the world’s largest hotel group by number of rooms. IHG owns, manages, leases or franchises, through various subsidiaries, over 4,500 hotels and more than 650,000 guest rooms in nearly 100 countries and territories around the world. The Group owns a portfolio of well recognized and respected hotel brands including InterContinental Hotels and Resorts, Hotel Indigo, Crowne Plaza Hotels and Resorts, Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites, and also manages the world’s largest hotel loyalty program, Priority Club Rewards with 52 million members worldwide. IHG has nearly 1,400 hotels in its development pipeline, which will create 160,000 jobs worldwide over the next few years. InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group’s holding company and is incorporated in Great Britain and registered in England and Wales.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• InterContinental Beijing Beichen
  Ms. Cindy Zhu, Marketing and Communications Manager
  xiaoxiao.zhu@ihg.com
  +86 (10) 8437 1294
  www.intercontinental.com/bjbeichen

The press release Olympic Run For Meeting Delegates At Intercontinental Beijing Beichen comes from Xinwengao.com press release distribution and journalist media database service in China.

The island’s new duty free policy was launched on 20 April 2011 and applies to both international tourists as well as those from mainland China. Customers shopping at the Sanya Duty Free Store can enjoy savings of up to 30% on luxury goods priced below CNY 5,000. China is expected to become the world’s largest luxury goods market by 2014, and because of these new regulations, Hainan, which already boasts sun, sea and sand, will be a new hub for luxury shopping. The China Duty Free Store is only a ten minute drive from Mandarin Oriental, Sanya, and guests staying at the resort during this promotion period can enjoy a complimentary shuttle service to and from the store at designated times during the day.

This new promotion from Mandarin Oriental, Sanya, available for a limited time only, is an ideal opportunity for visitors to save even more with a complimentary credit offer. Guests will be able to use the credit to enjoy everything from exquisite seafood, superb Cantonese cuisine and cocktails overlooking the South China Sea at the resort’s restaurants and bars, along with exclusive pampering by the professional therapists at the award winning Spa Village, an enchanting holistic sanctuary and destination in itself. Guests can also make the most of the unique recreation activities on offer which include Tai Chi and Qi Gong classes and Traditional Chinese Tea Ceremonies delivered by a Shaolin Kung Fu Master, yoga classes from an Indian Yoga Master, tennis, and customized activities including snorkeling at Coral Bay and cooking classes from the resorts’ professional chefs.

About Mandarin Oriental, Sanya
Mandarin Oriental, Sanya is unrivalled in its sheer luxury and refined elegance. Enjoying the privacy of a secluded 1.2 km nationally protected coral bay and nestled amongst lush tropical bloom, the resort is a hidden gem where nature is celebrated and tranquility is assured. Located just 7 minutes from Sanya city centre and 18 minutes from Sanya International Airport, the luxury resort provides convenient access to all of the area’s major tourist attractions.

The resort features a series of private low rise and villa accommodation with ocean views and landscaped tropical gardens, some featuring private pools, patios and gazebos. There are 10 innovative restaurants and bars, a 3,200 sq.m. Spa Village with 16 private treatment suites and 2 VIP spa villas, a large recreation centre, CoCo Kids Centre, and over 6,000 sq m of indoor and outdoor conference and banqueting space, providing guests with the perfect destination getaway whether for business or pleasure.

About Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and resorts. Mandarin Oriental now operates, or has under development, 42 hotels representing over 10,000 rooms in 27 countries, with 18 hotels in Asia, 12 in The Americas and 12 in Europe, Middle East and North Africa. In addition, the Group operates, or has under development, 13 Residences at Mandarin Oriental, connected to the Group’s properties.

Photography of Mandarin Oriental is available to download, in high and low resolution, in the Photo Library of our Media section, at www.mandarinoriental.com.

CONTACT INFORMATION

• Tungsten Zhang
  Director of Communications
  Mandarin Oriental, Sanya
  12 Yuhai Road, Sanya 572000, Hainan, China
  Tel: +86 (898) 8820 9999 ext. 6820
  Fax: +86 (898) 8820 9393
  Email: tungstenz@mohg.com
  www.mandarinoriental.com/sanya

The press release Mandarin Oriental Sanya Launches Spend & Save Promotion comes from Xinwengao.com press release distribution and journalist media database service in China.