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The Answer in a tree: Practices of Environmental Governance and Industrial Development in Lankao, Henan
Themed Upholding the “Shanghai Spirit” to Build a More Beautiful Home, the summit brought together leading media outlets, prominent think tanks, senior government officials and diplomatic envoys from SCO member states, observer states and dialogue partners, renowned scholars and experts in relevant fields, as well as representatives of the SCO Secretariat and other international and regional organizations.
On July 26, guests traveled to Lankao County, Kaifeng City, for a field visit. They proceeded to Jiaotong Square to hear stories about the Jiaotong Tree，headed to Jiao Yulu Memorial Park for the exhibition showcasing Comrade Jiao Yulu’s life and deeds，and departed for Huanghewan (Yellow River Bay) in Dongbatou Town to learn about ecological protection and high-quality development of the Yellow River.At last, guests departed for Guyang Music Town to visit the national musical instrument industry.They were eager to learn how this once impoverished region, long tormented by sandstorms, salinization, and waterlogging, had achieved comprehensive revitalization through environmental governance and industrial development.
Decades of relentless effort have forged Lankao’s remarkable transformation, a change vividly reflected in each upright paulownia tree.
This is the pulse of the earth.Stretching beneath the vast sky of China, the mighty Yellow River, revered as the Mother River, surges like a dragon, nourishing the root of Chinese civilization.
In Lankao, however, these same torrential waters of the Yellow River, with their relentless floods and windblown sands, also left three natural disasters, sandstorms, saline-alkaline soil, and waterlogging.
When the spring breeze blows across the old course of the Yellow River again, the landscape of Lankao is transformed. An ocean of paulownia trees spreads out into a stretch of vibrant green. With broad-leaved canopies, these tall and straight trees are like immortal monuments standing on the earth, wordlessly telling the name of a pioneer – Jiao Yulu.
One generation plants the trees, under whose shade another generation rests. In 1962, Jiao Yulu, then secretary of the Lankao County Party Committee, led the masses in a battle against three natural disasters. Their ingenious methods—covering sand dunes with excavated silt and planting trees to stabilize moving sands—have found a new life today. The ecological corridor, with a length of more than 1,500 kilometers, and the ecological forest land, covering an area of 200,000 mu, have become the unique “lucid waters and lush mountains” in the plain sandy area.Once endangering the people in Lankao, the three natural disasters—sandstorms, saline-alkaline soil and waterlogging—have now been transformed into ecotourism resources.Tourists can view old photos at the Yellow River Control Memorial Hall, go birdwatching by restored wetlands, and enjoy the rustle of leaves in the paulownia forest.
The paulownia forest is not only a green barrier guarding the homeland, but also breeds vigorous vitality.In Xuchang Village,Guyang Town, people there awaken to the melodious sound of the guzheng and guqin.Once planted to shield against wind and fix the sands, the paulownia trees have now become excellent materials for making Chinese traditional instruments.
Xuchang Village produces over 100,000 units of guzheng and guqin annually, generating 150 million yuan (CNY) in output value. With the help of e-commerce, the products are not only sold well across the country, but also exported to more than 10 countries and regions, including Japan and the United States. From a poverty-stricken village in the past to a prosperous village nowadays, the paulownia tree has witnessed the remarkable transformation of Xuchang Village.
Meanwhile, in the home-furnishing industrial park, leading enterprises such as Sofia and TATA Wood Door have taken root. These “singing woods” have been transformed from “timber worth dozens of yuan” into a modern home-furnishing industry with a production and operation income of more than 50 billion yuan(CNY). Paulownia has become the economic pillar of Lankao, and the furniture produced is shipped from Lankao to many cities across the country.
The gifts of this land extend far beyond this. The once barren saline-alkali soil are now planted with melt-in-your-mouth and sweet salt-tolerant sweet potatoes, juicy honey melons, and plump peanuts. These characteristic agricultural products have not only become the “New Three Treasures” of Lankao, but also a powerful new engine for boosting farmers’ incomes
The economic development has changed the local people’s way of life, and there are many such changes. In terms of education, finance, culture, science and technology, ecology and transportation, the brand-new Lankao is increasingly capturing the world’s attention.
In the sunlight, the vast fields of photovoltaic panels shimmer like a blue ocean.
In the fields, the modern wind turbines, stand tall and upright, their blades turning steadily in the breeze, generating clean energy that meets the local electricity demand and is transmitted to other regions.
The construction of high-standard farmland has been comprehensively promoted.The former saline-alkali land has now become ten thousand mu of fertile farmland.
Through the exploration of “5G + smart agriculture”, Lankao has realized the transformation from “relying on the weather for food” to tech-driven harvests. The grain yields climb steadily. The Harvest Festival brims with stories of the smart farming. On the land of Lankao, the beautiful picture of fertile farmland is slowly unfolding with “villages in the fields, fields among the villages, and villages and fields as one”.
From the paulownia tree planted by Jiao Yulu to the comprehensive revitalization of Lankao today, this is a history of struggle, and also a legend of moving from desolation and poverty to fertility and prosperity .
The vitality of a tree lies in taking root downward and growing upward; the vitality of a city lies in transforming the sand of suffering into the light of hope. This is the answer that Lankao has given to the world.
Ahmed Hassan Ahmed Mohamed Moustafa, Owner and Director of Asia Center for Studies and Translation from Egypt, expressed during his visit that he was deeply impressed by China’s achievements in poverty alleviation. He stated that Lankao’s remarkable development through initiatives like afforestation was precisely why he chose to visit, adding that such experiences hold invaluable lessons for his own country.
Hashtag: #Lankao #Henan
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
The “ANDPAD” Cloud-Based Construction Project Management Service Adds Supporting Indonesian, Thai, Traditional Chinese (Taiwan), and Spanish Languages
With the new addition of these four languages, ANDPAD now supports six languages, including the previously released English and Vietnamese.
■ Background
Japan’s construction sector faces chronic labor shortages, leading to an increase in the hiring of foreign nationals from Southeast Asia. This trend is accelerated by the Specified Skilled Worker system, supported by bilateral Memoranda of Cooperation (MOC) between Japan and various Southeast Asian governments. Consequently, a growing number of technical interns are transitioning to Specified Skilled Worker status. Consequently, a growing number of technical interns are transitioning to Specified Skilled Worker status.
Simultaneously, the construction sector is expanding in many Southeast Asian countries, although it still faces common challenges of on-site quality and boosting productivity.
In response to these trends, ANDPAD has expanded its language support to include Indonesian, Thai, Traditional Chinese (Taiwan), and Spanish. Initially, this multi-language support will cover the Construction Management features—the most widely used function of ANDPAD—to facilitate centralized information management and smoother communication at construction sites in both Japan and Southeast Asia.
Going forward, ANDPAD will continue to actively pursue expansion of functions in multiple languages along with development efforts to offer support for various languages. The company will proceed to promote DX in the Southeast Asian construction industry in addition to the Japanese market.
■ About Usage
Existing ANDPAD users can use these new language options version at no additional cost.
Scope of Support
ANDPAD app:
- iOS: 5.99 or higher
- Android: 5.98 or higher
Hashtag: #ANDPAD
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About the ANDPAD Service
The cloud-based construction project management service with the top share of the market in Japan*, ANDPAD makes the central management of everything from enhancing onsite efficiency to improving management possible. Since provision of the service started in 2016, through associated development efforts that emphasize intuitiveness and ease of use and thorough support for implementation and utilization, the service has reached over 233,000 corporate users and 684,000 individual users.
ANDPAD was selected as a “2024 Recommended Technology” under the NETIS (New Technology Information System) by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.
Details (Japanese language only): 
https://andpad.jp/
■Company Overview
Name : ANDPAD Inc.
Location : Sumitomo Fudosan Tokyo Mita Garden Tower 37F, 5-19 Mita 3 Chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Representative : Takeo Inada, CEO
Business Activities : Development, sales and operation of “ANDPAD” cloud-based construction project management service
Company Website (Japanese language only)：https://andpad.co.jp/
Media OutReach
Madame Tussauds Hong Kong Welcomes a New K-Wave Star Jung Hae In’s First-Ever Wax Figure Unveiled
A Star Moment in Detail｜Craftsmanship, Technology and Personal Touch
Showcasing Jung Hae In’s signature charm, his newly unveiled wax figure is dressed in an elegant black double-breasted Dolce & Gabbana suit with silk lapels, complemented by a white shirt and black Chelsea boots all personally selected by the actor. With both hands forming a heart at his chest and a warm, inviting smile, the figure captures the approachable and friendly essence that his fans ‘HAEINESS’ adore. Every detail, from hair colour and skin tone to the suit’s silhouette, lining, and brooch, was meticulously crafted based on precise measurements taken during a five-hour sitting, the acclaimed craftsmanship and dedication to realism for which Madame Tussauds is renowned.
From “Younger Man” to Acclaimed Actor｜A Track Record of Hit Dramas
Jung Hae In has established himself as a leading actor through critically acclaimed dramas like Something in the Rain, D.P. , and One Spring Night. With his gentle and heartfelt performances, he has earned the title of “National Boyfriend” and built a dedicated fanbase known as “HAEINESS.” Following the success of tvN’s Love Next Door and the film I, THE EXECUTIONER, he accepted Madame Tussauds Hong Kong’s invitation to be immortalised in wax.
Reflecting on the sitting process, Jung Hae In described it as an honour, expressing pride in leaving his likeness at a renowned landmark. He shared “Participating closely in the creation, discussing outfit choices and pose decisions with the team, was both exciting and overwhelming. Witnessing each intricate step come together into a single work of art was truly moving.
Before announcing the new lineup, Wade Chang, General Manager of Merlin Entertainments Hong Kong, expressed his heartfelt condolences regarding the recent tragedy in Hong Kong, saying, “Madame Tussauds Hong Kong would like to extend our deepest sympathies to all those affected and to their families.” He then conveyed his enthusiasm, stating “Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is committed to enhancing the K-Wave experience. Jung Hae In ‘s authenticity and professionalism have truly enriched our collaboration. Given the significant role K-pop culture plays in Hong Kong, we believe his presence will provide our guests with a unique and memorable experience.
Also, Mr. Kim Yoon-ho, Director of Korea, Hong Kong Tourism Board, remarked “I am excited for the launch of Jung Hae In’s first wax figure, celebrating his remarkable success. Madame Tussauds Hong Kong has been dedicated to promoting Korean culture and is continually enhancing its Korean lineup. With the growing global influence of Korean celebrities, we are excited to attract fans and visitors from around the world through the exceptional wax figures at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, allowing them to immerse themselves in the unique charm of Korea right here in the heart of Hong Kong.”
Your Immersive Hallyu Journey Begins ｜Limited Festive Offers Now Available
Jung Hae In’s wax figure has officially entered the hall of fame and be displayed at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong starting from today, offering fans a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in romantic K-dramas and meet the beloved actor in a new way. To mark the launch, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is pleased to introduce an exclusive online offer from 16 to 22 December 2025, fans can enjoy a single entry for just HK$199 through the official website.
For an ultimate experience, guests can opt for the limited festive package from 23 December 2025 till 4 January 2026 at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong admission, which includes admission to Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, an exclusive guidebook a digital photo and one interactive VR Thrill Coaster – Hong Kong experience – all for just HK$285, a 20% off discount off its original price.
In this holiday season, don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate with Jung Hae In, Lee Jong Suk, Yim Si Wan, and more in the K-Wave Zone. Join us for a festive sing-along with Taylor Swift or capture a memorable AI interactive photo with Gong Jun. Step into the famous fun world of Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, where over 100 lifelike wax figures await you. Plan your visit to The Peak now and create unforgettable holiday memories.
Hashtag: #MadameTussauds
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Madame Tussauds
Madame Tussauds has been inviting people to walk the red carpet and get closer to the revered for over 250 years. With 17 Merlin-operated attractions in the world’s top destination cities, we are dedicated to giving millions of visitors the opportunity to mingle with the mighty from A-listers to music legends, heroes of sport, to world leaders. Today, we continue to partner with the global icons of a generation to create astonishing lifelike figures from sittings and offer exciting and interactive experiences to ensure guests have never felt closer to fame.
About Merlin Entertainments
Merlin Entertainments is a world leader in branded entertainment destinations, offering a diverse portfolio of resort theme parks, city-centre gateway attractions and LEGOLAND® Resorts which span across the UK, US, Western Europe, China and Asia Pacific. Dedicated to creating experiences that inspire joy and connection, Merlin welcomes more than 62 million guests annually to its diverse global estate in over 20 countries. An expert in bringing world-famous entertainment brands to life, Merlin works with partners including the LEGO® Group, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Peppa Pig, DreamWorks and Ferrari to create destinations where guests can immerse themselves in a wide array of brand-driven worlds, rides and uplifting learning experiences.
See www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information.
Media OutReach
Southeast Asian Games Thailand 2025 Esports Appoints Moonshot as Official Mobile Controller Partner
Taking place from the 9th to 20th December, the SEA Games Thailand 2025 Esports competition is expected to draw millions of viewers across the region, with widespread engagement from gaming communities across Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam. The 2025 edition will feature leading mobile eSports titles such as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Arena of Valour, Free Fire and FC Online, further strengthening the event’s reputation as a cornerstone of competitive gaming culture in Asia.
As the Official Controller Partner, Moonshot will also debut a special SEA Games Controller Collection, this will be a commemorative series featuring designs inspired by participating countries and co-designed with global IP partners. The limited series will be available exclusively during the competition period via Moonshot’s official website (https://shop.themoonshot.xyz/)
“We’re honoured to support SEA Games Thailand 2025 Esports and contribute to one of the most influential gaming events in Southeast Asia,” said Managing Director at Moonshot, JW Lee. “Our vision is to bring hardware, software, and digital rewards together to inspire a new generation of gamers, and SEA Games is the perfect place to begin that journey.”
Strengthening the future of Mobile Esports
Mobile gaming is the dominant force in Southeast Asia’s gaming landscape, with the region being home to hundreds of millions of mobile-first players. Moonshot’s partnership with SEA Games Esports 2025 reflects the company’s commitment to driving innovation in this fast-growing segment.
Throughout the event, Moonshot will activate a series of on-site experiences, including demo zones, creator interactions, and community gaming activities powered by the Moonshot gaming ecosystem. The partnership aims to elevate the tournament experience for both competitors and fans by merging physical gameplay with digital engagement features, collectible rewards, and interactive app-based challenges.
Hashtag: #Moonshot #SEAGames2025 #SEAGamesEsports #EsportsAsia #MobileEsports #MobileGaming
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Moonshot
Moonshot is building the world’s first phygital mobile gaming ecosystem that seamlessly integrates premium hardware, digital gameplay, and a unified rewards layer to enhance how players discover, play, and engage with mobile games, whether casually or competitively. Moonshot also collaborates with gaming studios, IP licensors, creators, and ecosystem partners to deliver co-branded campaigns, limited-edition collections, and reward-driven engagement experiences. Learn more at 
www.themoonshot.xyz
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