Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Zhu Yonglei, vice minister of the National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA)

Mr. Dong Xin, vice minister of the NRTA

Mr. Yang Guorui, vice minister of the NRTA

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Sept. 27, 2024

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "Promoting High-Quality Development." Today, we have invited vice ministers of the National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA), Mr. Zhu Yonglei, Mr. Dong Xin and Mr. Yang Guorui, to brief you on relevant developments and take your questions. Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Zhu for his introduction.

Zhu Yonglei:

Friends from the media, good morning. First of all, on behalf of the NRTA, I would like to extend my gratitude to friends from the media and all sectors of society for your concern and interest in the NRTA and the radio and television and internet audiovisual work over the years. The NRTA has thoroughly implemented the guiding principles of the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Xi Jinping Thought on Culture, and the decisions and plans of the Party Central Committee to promote high-quality development of the radio and television and internet audiovisual sector. I would like to brief you on this work from five aspects:

First, we have advanced innovation in publicity and cemented and expanded mainstream thoughts and ideas. Radio and television media nationwide and the National Alliance of New Media in Radio and Television have provided people with authoritative news reports, vividly communicated Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, highlighted Chinese modernization and other themes, and produced down-to-earth programs focusing on people's lives and outstanding reports on major events and competitions.

Second, we have fostered diverse high-quality content to enrich people's intellectual and cultural lives. China has become a major producer of radio, television and online audio and video content. A diverse range of works have been produced and released. For example, from January to August this year, 148 TV dramas and online dramas in China have obtained distribution licenses, and excellent works such as "Blossoms Shanghai," "Always on the Move," "To the Wonder," "She and Her Girls," "City of the City" and "Joy of Life 2" have emerged. Achieving development by reducing production and enhancing quality has become a consensus of the industry. In addition, entertainment programs such as "Singer 2024" and the "China Online Audiovisual Annual Gala" have achieved high audience ratings. The Revisiting Classics channel launched this February has aired many popular classic works, attracting more than 200 million viewers.

Third, we have taken actions to address problems related to multiple charges and complicated operations to solve people's difficulties and troubles in watching television. Over 80% of households with cable television and IPTV are now able to directly access live TV channels as soon as they turn on their televisions. That is, they can watch CCTV 1 directly once they turn on their TVs. In addition, 200,000 hotels and 11 million hotel rooms have also realized easy access to live TV channels. In the first half of this year, we have focused on addressing the problem of complicated operations. A total of 560 million cable television, IPTV, and internet TV terminals have achieved the goal of reducing the number of subscription options by over 50%. People used to complain about excessive subscription options. Now they have been reduced by half. Cable TV and IPTV have completely got rid of advertisements that appear when the TV is switched on. Over 200 million TV users have realized the use of a single remote control to watch TV. In the past, the operations for watching TV were complicated. There were two remote controls, one controlling the TV, and the other controlling the set-top box. Now, more than 200 million users can use a single remote control to watch TV. The Academy of Broadcasting Planning, NRTA has developed a new three-mode universal remote control that can control both the TV and the set-top box. The Academy of Broadcasting Science, NRTA has developed eight miniature set-top boxes that are only the size of a USB flash drive and can be hidden behind the TV. In the past, set-top boxes were relatively large and had to be placed in view. Now, these miniature set-top boxes that are the size of a USB flash drive can be directly inserted into the back of the TV, with which people can still watch TV. At the same time, we have also launched a series of measures to diversify TV content and user experiences and promote mutual empowerment between televisions and smaller-screen terminals. This August, the proportion of active users of live TV channels increased by 10 percentage points over the same period last year, which is also the highest in the past three years.

Fourth, we have stayed committed to innovation and pushed the development of the industry to new heights. The central and provincial television stations have all achieved high-definition (HD) broadcasting. The HD rate of city-level and other local TV channels has exceeded 98%. Nine ultra-high-definition (UHD) television channels have been opened nationwide. With the coordinated development of cable TV networks and 5G, the number of 5G users of radio and television has surpassed 28 million. Online audio and video have continued to prosper, with the number of users reaching 1.068 billion. Remarkable progress has been made in the upgrading of public services. In particular, the emergency broadcasting covering the whole country has played a positive role in this year's flooding season. In the first half of this year, the total revenue of the national radio, television, and online video and audio service industry reached 668.3 billion yuan, with a year-on-year increase of 7%, contributing to China's social and economic development.

Fifth, we have balanced domestic and international priorities while deepening international exchanges and cooperation. To support national diplomatic efforts, we organized events such as the Forum on China-Africa Media Cooperation and launched audiovisual exhibitions in various locations worldwide, showcasing China's radio, television, and online audiovisual programs to global audiences. Additionally, we facilitated the global distribution of TV dramas like "To the Wonder," "The Three-Body Problem," and "Blossoms Shanghai," enhancing people's understanding of China in different countries and regions. This concludes my introduction. My colleagues and I are now happy to take your questions. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thanks to Mr. Zhu for the introduction. We'll now open the floor for questions. Please raise your hand if you'd like to ask a question.

Changjiang Daily:

The speaker just mentioned efforts being made to address issues such as the hidden costs of cable bundle deals and the complexity of current operations. What additional measures will be taken to improve users' audiovisual experience? Thank you.

Zhu Yonglei:

Let me answer this question. Thank you very much to the reporter. Addressing the issues of the hidden costs of cable bundle deals and the complexity of current operations is crucial as it affects the viewing rights of hundreds of millions of users. The NRTA has given this matter great importance and began working on it last year, and has achieved some interim goals, as I've just mentioned.

Next, in terms of addressing the issue of the hidden costs of cable bundle deals, we will further optimize the management system, strengthen supervision and inspection, and firmly prevent a resurgence of these practices. Positive progress has been made generally at present. As I just mentioned, the bundled package options have been reduced by 50%. It is necessary to comprehensively improve the service quality and audience's experience of cable TV, IPTV, and internet TV. In the second half of the year, we will also formulate some regulations and institutions and formulate and release service standards for cable television, IPTV, and internet TV to the whole society. We will also optimize the setting of the integrated film and television package of internet TV, which is also a paid package, called the integrated film and television package, so that consumers can access more and richer content.

Regarding the complex TV operations, we focused on households last year. As mentioned earlier, 81% of cable TV users and 86% of IPTV users nationwide can now access live broadcasts and CCTV-1 immediately upon turning on their TVs. This year, our focus is on addressing complicated TV operations in hotels. Many of you have experienced difficulties turning on TVs or accessing live channels when staying at hotels during business trips or vacations. By the end of this year, we aim to resolve these issues in most hotels across China. This will make watching TV in hotel rooms more convenient during your travels. We will also promote the participation of old terminals in hotels in the trade-in program, which implements the trade-in policy and encourages hotels to replace old TVs with UHDTVs. Before the end of this year, a new three-mode universal remote control will also be launched. The micro set-top box, which is only the size of a USB drive, will be put into use in large numbers. We are also actively encouraging operators and TV manufacturers to fully integrate set-top box functions into TVs, achieving integration of the set-top box and the TV. Our goal is to develop prototypes by the end of this year, and eventually make set-top boxes obsolete.

In addition, to consolidate the progress made in addressing multiple charges and complicated operations, the NRTA has also established a complaint mechanism. If people find any problems concerning bundled pricing and complicated operations, they can report these issues through the complaint hotline, emails, the official website, and the official Weibo account of the NRTA. They can also use complaint channels announced by the provincial radio and television administrations and operators. I believe that problems reported through these channels can be addressed and resolved in a timely manner. Thank you.

Science and Technology Daily:

We've noticed that there are some Ultra-high definition (UHD) programs broadcasting at present that bring a better experience to viewers. What are the NRTA's considerations for advancing the development of ultra-high-definition TV (UHDTV) in the next step? Thank you.

Zhu Yonglei:

This is a very good question. The NRTA is advancing this work with all efforts. We will have Mr. Yang to answer this question.

Yang Guorui:

Thank you for your question. We all know that TV has evolved significantly, from black and white to color, analog to digital, and standard-definition TV to high-definition. Now, we've entered the era of UHD. UHD has a resolution over four times that of high definition, providing viewers with sharper details, richer colors, smoother images, and a more immersive experience. At the same time, UHD not only performs well on large-size screens but also has obvious improvements in picture quality on small screens such as mobile phones, tablet computers, and vehicle terminals. Therefore, UHD will bring a brand new audiovisual experience to people on both large and small screens.

After years of hard work, China's video technology has progressed from learning standard-definition technology and catching up with HD technology to developing some core UHD technologies that are at world-class levels. We've made accelerating UHD development a key strategic task, following the approach of driving overall development by launching pilot programs in selected areas, making key breakthroughs, and upgrading the entire industrial chain. We planned to pilot projects in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangdong, and selected several regions to promote UHD broadcasting on provincial satellite TVs. The Beijing and Guangdong pilots have launched in April and August this year, respectively, while Shanghai's will officially launch tomorrow. An important task of these pilots is to remove barriers in UHD content production, program broadcasting, network transmission and terminal presentation so UHD programs can truly enter ordinary households.

We will adopt an integrated approach to advance the application of UHD in radio and television, online audio and video, as well as TV screens and mobile phone screens. It is planned that by the end of 2025, 13 new UHD channels will be aired across the country, including CCTV and provincial satellite TVs. There will be over 20 UHD channels in China. By 2026, 11 more UHD channels will be added. At the same time, streaming platforms — including iQiyi, Youku, Tencent, Mango TV, Bilibili and Migu — will ensure that over 50% of their newly added programs annually are in UHD. At that time, UHD will become the primary presentation format for radio, television, and online audio and video, and people will be able to enjoy stunning and immersive audiovisual experiences at home.

To effectively carry out this work, we actively cooperate with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, China Media Group, and local Party committees and governments, and communicate closely with the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and the Ministry of Finance (MOF). These joint efforts create a sound ecosystem for UHDTV development. For example, the NDRC, the MOF, and other departments have actively offered support and included UHD development in the scope of support as we implement major national strategies and build up security capacity in key areas while promoting equipment and consumer goods renewals. Additionally, as there are still cases where technical quality doesn't meet standards, we will work with relevant departments to establish a comprehensive quality certification mechanism to ensure users get a real UHD audiovisual experience, striving to make the UHD industry development a high-quality project and a popular project that satisfies the public. Thank you.

CNR:

Next week, we are going to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. Over the past 75 years, especially since the 18th CPC National Congress, great changes have taken place in China. I've noticed that the NRTA has launched a series of theoretical programs reflecting the development of our era. These programs tell the story of China's theoretical innovations in an accessible manner. What will the NRTA do to promote the development of these theoretical programs going forward? Can we expect to see more accessible theoretical programs that will resonate with viewers? We are looking forward to that. Thank you.

Zhu Yonglei:

Thank you for your questions. We'll have Mr. Dong answer these questions.

Dong Xin:

Thank you, Mr. Zhu. First of all, thanks very much to this reporter for raising very good questions. The primary responsibility of radio, television, audio, and video is to connect with the broader audience through programs or products, encouraging interaction and understanding of our society's development and the Party's principles and policies. Mr. Zhu has already provided an overall description in his introduction. I'd like to share some more information regarding the specific questions you raised.

You may have seen that the radio, television, audio, and video industry has recently launched many programs, such as a series of theoretical programs reflecting the development of the times, like "Thoughts Shine on the Journey" and "Nice to Meet You: Book List of General Secretary Xi Jinping." Of course, there are also many programs concerning daily life, including documentaries, TV dramas, micro-documentaries, and cartoons. Some are traditional TV programs and some are online works. Specifically, as you said, popular TV programs truly demonstrate real-life scenes of the people frame by frame, vividly disseminating the Party's innovative theories.

The radio, television, audio, and video industry has always taken publicizing Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era as a primary task. Particularly, our industry should thoroughly study and publicize Xi Jinping Thought on Culture. We use headlines, home pages and first screens to promote the Party's innovative theories, fully leveraging the unique role of audiovisual media to let facts speak for themselves. Facts are most convincing. Vivid audios and videos with multiple perspectives and various forms have been launched, aiming to better spread scientific theories to ordinary households, enabling people to learn and understand these theories, and enhancing cohesion and forging the soul of the society.

You mentioned a significant event: we're about to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. Local TV stations and online platforms have made extensive preparations, and we've had numerous discussions about it. I'd like to briefly introduce a few upcoming theoretical programs, such as "The Path to the Mountain of Knowledge — Book List of General Secretary Xi Jinping (Season 2)," the documentary "Cultural Exploration in China," the online documentary "Historical Moments of the People's Republic of China," and the cartoon "Follow the Traces of Time." These works will be presented to audiences in October as we celebrate the PRC's 75th anniversary. Our creators have worked hard on these programs. They've used real cases from various dimensions — historical, cultural and contemporary — to comprehensively demonstrate social development and people's happiness. These programs directly present the essence and practical achievements of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era in a vivid and touching manner. In the past, we've been moved to tears while watching TV, and I believe this time, we will also be emotionally stirred, perhaps even inspired to sing and dance. We're using the development process and precious historical moments since the PRC's founding to showcase the country's progress. These works demonstrate the vitality of Marxism's basic tenets in integration with China's specific realities and fine traditional culture, enabling viewers to envision the future. These productions are excellent. Please stay tuned. Thank you.

ThePaper.cn:

In the past two years, micro dramas have become very popular, with content rapidly evolving. However, we have also identified some issues, such as shoddy production and irregular charging practices. What follow-up measures will the NRTA take to address the future development of micro dramas? Thank you.

Zhu Yonglei:

You're referring to micro dramas. I'll ask my colleague, Mr. Dong, to address this question.

Dong Xin:

This is indeed an excellent question. Micro dramas have captured the attention of people across all age groups, from young adults to older people and even children and teenagers. As you mentioned, with economic and social development and advances in information technology, micro dramas have emerged as a new form of artistic expression and have developed rapidly. These dramas have played a positive role in promoting artistic innovation, meeting the diverse and multi-layered intellectual and cultural needs of the public, and contributing to economic and social development. They've produced numerous hits, flourishing alongside China's economic and social progress. However, we must also acknowledge the issues you've raised regarding content, dissemination and subject matter selection. I view these problems as developmental shortcomings — some we might call "noise" or even "black sheep." We firmly oppose these issues and must address them.

To promote the healthy and orderly development of micro dramas, the NRTA has conducted thorough and comprehensive research. As Mr. Zhu mentioned, we will strengthen coordination with various departments, commissions, provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities, as well as all sectors of society, including private and state-owned enterprises. We aim to leverage the coordinating role of comprehensive social governance, balancing development with security and vitality with order. We'll give equal emphasis to regulation and prosperity, while simultaneously boosting development and reducing burdens. Our focus will be on deepening reforms and standardizing management. Let me briefly outline two key points:

First, we'll improve rules and implement comprehensive policies. Our primary focus is to promote prosperity and development, creating a more enabling environment. With advanced technology and high levels of participation, we need to provide more space for growth. Simultaneously, we'll prioritize regular oversight to address the aforementioned issues and maintain a fair, orderly and healthy ecosystem. Another crucial point is to bridge the gap between traditional and new media platforms. We aim to make the simultaneous broadcast of high-quality micro dramas on both large and small screens the norm. The NRTA is actively working on this initiative.

Second, we will continue to advance brand building. Branding is very important for the sustainable development of micro dramas, as is its added value, which encourages more participation. We're focusing on using the "micro drama+" format to empower various industries. Creating micro dramas for travel, exploring the world, and learning about specific fields are all key initiatives we're promoting to build strong brands. At the same time, to make micro dramas more vigorous, we have actively encouraged and promoted the implementation of supporting measures by major streaming platforms. These platforms should engage many public writers, promoters, and creators. There should be supporting measures for those who make great contributions, guiding the market allocation mechanism to shift focus from traffic promotion to content creation. This shift towards content creation aligns with broader trends in multimedia development and is what society as a whole hopes to see. We believe that with the joint efforts of the entire industry, the future development of micro dramas is still very promising. Let us look forward to that together. Thank you!

CCTV:

As we all know, the resolution adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposed deepening the reform of cultural systems and mechanisms. What are the considerations and specific initiatives for the radio and television industry to implement these reform tasks in the next step? Thank you.

Zhu Yonglei:

Thank you for your question. You've asked a very important and broad question. I will try to answer it. My response may be a bit lengthy, as this question is both very important and far-reaching.

This question is highly relevant to today's briefing theme. We know that reform is the fundamental driving force for high-quality development. Therefore, we will fully implement the guiding principles from the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee and Xi Jinping Thought on Culture and advance the high-quality development of radio, television, and online audiovisual services by deepening reform across the board. Our overall approach is to uphold the original mission of these media to spread the Party's voice and serve the people. We will maintain their basic attributes of ideology, public service and technological industry. We'll focus on the characteristic principles of "content + communication," "content + network," and "culture + technology," consolidating traditional radio and television while innovating in online audiovisual content. By integrating these efforts, we aim to drive systematic transformation across the industry over the next three years, opening new prospects for high-quality development. We will make our reform more focused and work towards the following aspects:

First, we'll build the systems for communications across all forms of media. We'll prioritize news reporting and strengthen radio and television media's capacity for news gathering, editing, and broadcasting. We'll enhance capabilities in theoretical promotion, thematic publicity, information publicity, and coverage of major emergencies. Particularly over the next three years, we'll accelerate the deep integration and development of radio and television media, transforming them into new mainstream media. We'll promote the in-depth integration and coordinated development of radio, television, and online audiovisual content, creating a new environment of mainstream public opinion.

Second, we will build a product and service supply system with many high-quality products, good experiences, and wide channels. In terms of content, we will improve incentive policies and make creation and production more active. In particular, we will encourage originality and support high-quality products, and strive to launch a batch of high-quality fine works every year. We will launch works such as "Minning Town," "A Lifelong Journey," "The Three-Body Problem," and "To the Wonder" every year, which have been popular for the past two years. Next month, on Oct. 11, we will also hold the first Conference on the Creation of High-Quality Products in Radio and Television of China, aiming to unite colleagues in the radio and television industry across the country and discuss how to create and produce more fine works. In terms of user experience, we will completely solve the problems of multiple charges and complicated operations through technologies and systems, realize the use of a single remote control to watch TV, and integrate TV and set-top boxes as soon as possible. We will make every effort to advance the development of UHDTV to give users a brand-new experience. In terms of channels, we will build a network for contents that gathers massive content, and connects both traditional television and radio and new media as well as online and offline platforms, including the expansion of various terminals, such as car TVs and public electronic screens, so that high-quality content can directly reach the community level and users.

Third, we will build an industrial system of radio, television, and online audiovisual technology led by advanced technology where the entire industrial chain is interconnected and coordinated, and market entities are active. We will vigorously develop new business forms of UHD, enabling people to see more UHD channels and content as soon as possible. We will speed up the development of a new radio and television network, which can carry more high-quality audiovisual services and provide better and diversified services. Meanwhile, we will improve industrial policies and actively foster future-oriented market entities and industrial clusters.

Fourth, we will build a high-level comprehensive governance system and security system for the industry. In particular, we will advance the legislation of the radio and television law and accelerate the establishment of a comprehensive governance system for the industry with complete policies and regulations, sound standards and norms, advanced technologies, and excellent systems and mechanisms. We will also build a new system for safeguarding the security of content, networks, and data so as to ensure the supply of safe and high-quality radio, television, and online audiovisual services for numerous households.

Fifth, we will build a multi-dimensional, coordinated, more effective international communication system. We will carry out multi-field and multi-level international exchanges and cooperation and build a Chinese audiovisual content brand with clear recognition and extensive influence. The NRTA is studying and formulating guidelines to promote the high-quality development of the industry and will also introduce a series of policies and measures. We welcome you to continue to pay attention to that. These are some of our preliminary considerations for advancing reform. Thank you!

Reuters:

In China, as elsewhere, entertainment programming including television can reflect and shape ideas about changes in the economy and household economics. Just this week, China has announced an important series of stimulus measures for the economy. In your view, what kinds of economic narratives should programming include to support development? And alternatively, are there themes or narratives that would not be helpful?

Zhu Yonglei:

Thank you for your question and for your interest in Chinese radio, television, and TV programs. Let me attempt to answer this question. I've always believed that media, including radio and television, plays a crucial role in reflecting and driving socioeconomic development. It's been the ongoing responsibility of Chinese radio and television media and professionals to promptly understand the needs and sentiments of the people. Through news reports and radio and television productions, we aim to reflect and promote high-quality economic and social development, foster social fairness and justice, and enhance people's well-being.

I don't know whether you have or haven't watched a BRTV program called "One Step Forward," which takes viewers into Beijing communities, focusing on some of the conflicts that occur during community governance. Some of these conflicts can be very intense and this program does not avoid these conflicts, but instead truly covers them, taking viewers to see how Chinese people and the Chinese government use the institutional strengths of China and the wisdom of Chinese people to resolve conflicts in social development. Another example is CQTV's program called "Focus Today," which also uses regular and constructive oversight through public opinion to promote the governance of the entire city. Of course, there is also "Yicai" on SMG, which is also a recognized all-media brand, using all methods of media to truly reflect China's financial hot spots in all dimensions. Through years of operation, it has faithfully recorded and even advanced China's economic structural reform, as it has promoted the economic development of China through reporting.

Of course, all the programs I just mentioned are all news and financial programs. In the sphere of TV dramas, online series, online movies and documentaries, there are also many other works that directly focus on conflicts during China's economic and social development as well as reflecting the struggles of ordinary people. For example, series you all are familiar with like "Minning Town," "Bright Future," "The Long Season" and "Wild Bloom," and documentaries such as "Towards a Shared Future" and "A Long Cherished Dream," are some of these works. These works share a common feature, that is, through using literature and art they reflect some of the problems within China's economic and social development, including how to solve these problems, and reflect the fighting spirit of the people under the leadership of the Party and the government. Not only do these programs reflect economic and social development, but they also bring inspiration to the viewers, including many government officials, which in fact contributes to China's social and economic development.

There are good and bad times in life as well as laughter and tears. The reason why these works are recognized and loved by their audiences is that they are rooted in reality, face problems head-on and focus on the present. People can see China's economic development, social transformation, the indomitable fighting spirit of the people as well as the vivid practice of Chinese modernization.

In the next step, we will still need to work on two aspects: First, radio, television and online audiovisual media outlets should continue to record and actively promote China's economic and social development, so as to enable audiences and listeners in China and even around the world to have a comprehensive and accurate understanding of developing China in a timely manner. Second, more programs that express the fighting spirit of ordinary people and depict the development of our entire country in the new era should be created, so as to offer people who are working for Chinese modernization a boost in spirit. That's all from me. Thank you!

Jilin Radio and TV station:

The Revisiting Classics channel is currently very popular. The launch of such a public service channel has enriched the spiritual life of the people. What are the next steps in the development of this channel? Thank you.

Zhu Yonglei:

As I just mentioned, this channel is very popular with a total of 200 million viewers. Mr. Yang is in charge of this work. We will invite him to answer this question.

Yang Guorui:

Thanks to this reporter for their attention to the TV channel Revisiting Classics. Just now, Mr. Zhu also mentioned that in the past two years the NRTA has been advancing efforts focused on addressing multiple charges and complicated operations. With these efforts, we have also deeply felt that excellent classical works are the eternal cultural needs of the people. Based on that, we have organized and planned the launch of the TV channel Revisiting Classics in a timely manner. This channel's characteristics I can summarize as follows: First, the excellent classical works that are broadcasted are carefully selected, being works that are very popular among the people and have endured for a long time. Second, there is no extra cost. Third, no commercial advertisements are broadcasted.

Since its official launch on Feb. 1 of this year, the channel has attracted widespread attention from society, with the number of viewers rising rapidly. According to our statistics, so far the Revisiting Classics channel has had 56.35 million subscribers and a total of over 2,700 episodes of excellent TV dramas, cartoons and documentaries have been broadcast with very good ratings.

In order to make effective efforts in our work related to the Revisiting Classics channel, the NRTA has meticulously formulated measures on channel operation and management, and has established corresponding working mechanisms from various aspects, such as policy support, program reserves, program editing and broadcasting, transmission coverage, publicity and promotion as well as sustainable development, to continuously advance and ensure the virtuous cycle and sustainable development of the Revisiting Classics channel through active innovation of business formats and services. In the next step, we will focus on the following areas:

First, we will improve the reserve of programs. We will continue to improve the working mechanism, and research, plan and determine the program list for the next quarter and even the next year in advance, make every effort to meet the viewing needs of viewers, and strive to ensure that everyone benefits when they turn on the TV. At the same time, we will also launch the 2025 screening and exhibition project of 100 classic works on the Revisiting Classics channel in due course. We will publicly release the list of classic programs for the year, and encourage all sectors of society to donate programs for the channel. 

Second, we will improve program editing and broadcasting. In a few days, we will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. The Revisiting Classics channel will broadcast excellent TV series throughout October, including "All Quiet in Peking," "Red Sorghum" and "Like a Flowing River." At the same time, we have also made coordinated plans and arrangements for the rebroadcasting of audience favorite classics, such as adaptations of the four great classical novels of Chinese literature.

Third, we will improve the publicity and promotion of the channel. We will further work on the promotion of the channel, program previews, and the research and literary and artistic review of classic works. We will actively organize activities such as introducing the Revisiting Classics channel to elderly care institutions and school campuses. So far, the channel has covered nearly 15,000 elderly care institutions and about 500,000 user terminals nationwide, receiving enthusiastic responses. We will continue to work hard to ensure classic audiovisual works reach more people, have more profound influence, and release greater spiritual strength on the new journey of the new era. Thank you.

Dragon TV:

The 34th Flying Apsaras Award ceremony was held last weekend and a batch of TV series were awarded. Ordinary viewers are most concerned about whether they can watch more excellent works on TV and online. What measures will be adopted to further enrich the high-quality content of radio, television, and online audio and video? Thank you.

Zhu Yonglei:

Thank you for your question, I will answer this. In the past few years, excellent TV dramas and online dramas have been produced one after another, with many highlights, from "A Lifelong Journey" and "The Knockout" to "Three-Body" and "Blossoms Shanghai." People all speak highly of these high-quality products. I think this is a very important achievement for TV dramas and workers in the TV industry in practicing Xi Jinping Thought on Culture. The NRTA has adhered to the people-centered approach to creation, and in accordance with the requirements of finding the right topic, telling a good story, and producing high-quality products, systematically planned major topics, strengthened planning, guidance and support, and advanced the creation and broadcast of a number of excellent works with profound ideas and original artistic expression. For example, we broadcast TV series over the past year such as "Ask on the Boundless Land," "Welcome to Milele," "The Eagle in the Sea and Sky," "Happy Grass" and "March Towards the Southwest." In particular, "The Flowers Blooming" aired during prime time on CCTV 1 recently, depicting the story of principal Zhang Guimei and her efforts to establish a high school for girls in a mountainous area of Yunnan, which is very touching. This drama now has a score of 9.0 on the popular review site Douban, which is very high. People feel that this drama is somewhat like the TV series "Minning Town" from previous years, which was a popular themed drama.

The NRTA has also actively improved the working mechanisms for the service, guidance and organization of literary and artistic creations, and the television drama producers and television literary and artistic workers have great enthusiasm. Another interesting phenomenon is that more and more filmmakers have been creating TV series and online dramas in the past couple of years. The famed director Wong Kar-wai directed the TV series "Blossoms Shanghai," which, as you all know, is phenomenal; Teng Congcong, an outstanding young director, created the online series "To the Wonder" this year; and the renowned director Zhang Yimou is currently serving as the supervising producer of the TV series "The Protagonist." This is a very interesting phenomenon.

At the same time, the NRTA is also working to arrange for good programs to be aired on good platforms at prime time. Recently, we issued the opinions on enriching the contents of television and further meeting the cultural needs of the people, introducing a series of specific measures. For example, TV dramas are encouraged to be aired on multiple TV channels and on online platforms and TV channels simultaneously. The TV series "The Great Sea Road," which launched recently, aired simultaneously on Jiangsu Satellite TV, Zhejiang Satellite TV, Hunan Satellite TV, Shandong Satellite TV and Xinjiang Satellite TV, as well as video sites Tencent Video and Mango TV. This has greatly facilitated people's watching of the drama and also enhanced the dissemination and influence of dramas.

As another example, we have promoted coordinated broadcasting between traditional television and smaller-screen terminals as well as dissemination between online and offline platforms. For example, the online series "Imperfect Victim" has been aired simultaneously on TV stations and online platforms for the first time. The just-mentioned "To the Wonder" is the first online series to be aired on CCTV 1 during prime time, greatly enriching the content of TV screens. We have also established a coordination mechanism with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, promoting and shaping tourism with culture. There is a phenomenon of "a drama makes a city popular," which integrates culture into the economy. The series "Meet Yourself," "Blossoms Shanghai" and "To the Wonder" are all examples of this. For example, some tourist resorts in Xinjiang have become popular because of "To the Wonder." That is the effect of TV dramas on local tourism. Series such as "The Great Sea Road," that is currently being broadcast, and "The City of Sunlight," that will be aired during the National Day holiday, can enable audiences to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Xinjiang and Xizang while experiencing the ups and downs of the series' plots. If you watch these two dramas, you will definitely have enthusiasm to visit these places and enjoy the beautiful scenery there. That's all from me. Thank you!

Shou Xiaoli:

Due to time constraints, one last question, please.

China Daily:

During the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, President Xi Jinping mentioned the airing of the Chinese TV series "Minning Town" in the Comoros when meeting with the president of the country, expressing that "China is ready to continue the cooperative partnership as the ‘Minning Town' has shown to build a China-Comoros community with a shared future." At present, what new initiatives will be taken by the NRTA to promote cooperation and exchange in radio, television, online audio and video between China and other countries? Thank you.

Zhu Yonglei:

Thank you for your question. This is a very good question. We will have Mr. Yang Guorui, who is in charge of international communication, answer this question.

Yang Guorui:

Thank you for your attention to this issue. I suppose many of us have watched the TV series "Minning Town," which is a true portrayal of the efforts that were taken to alleviate poverty in western China. After airing in the Comoros, the series has generated an enthusiastic response and has touched the people of the Comoros who also aspire for and pursue a happier and better life. In fact, "Minning Town" has been translated and broadcast in more than 50 countries and regions, achieving good results.

A good cultural program is worth a thousand words. Radio, television and online audiovisual works are important carriers for telling China's story to the world. In recent years, more and more Chinese works, including the series "Three-Body" and "To the Wonder," have gained popularity among overseas audiences. Just now, Mr. Zhu and Mr. Dong both mentioned that the series "Three-Body" has taken a leading position with the number of views in many countries and regions in North America and Europe, with its score on the overseas mainstream streaming platform Viki reaching 9.2 points. The series "To the Wonder" was selected for Long Form Competition at this year's Canneseries in France, successfully screening and receiving a lot of praise from overseas professional media and audiences. In addition, as Mr. Dong also just mentioned, short videos and micro dramas have also demonstrated strong competitiveness in the global market as new highlights of China's audiovisual content.

These Chinese radio, television and online audiovisual works not only enhance the understanding of China by the people of the countries and regions where they were broadcast but also connect common feelings of both Chinese and foreign people across borders, cultures and races. We have long been actively promoting the use of radio, television and audiovisual works as a bridge to link China with the world, enhancing connectivity between people. By continuously strengthening the cooperation and coproduction of Chinese and foreign radio, television and audiovisual works, as well as introducing excellent foreign film and television works, we have not only continued to enrich the supply of high-quality content but also have enabled people to appreciate the unique charm of different cultures. For example, in the near future, we will air on TV an array of excellent overseas programs including "Einstein and Hawking: Unlocking the Universe," "The Masters of Rome" and "Coco Chanel." You are all welcome to watch them when they air.

In addition, we have continued to build bilateral and multilateral mechanisms including the Forum on China-Africa Media Cooperation, the China-Arab States Forum on Radio and Television Cooperation and the ASEAN-China Media Week, continuously promoting policy communication, conceptual dialogue, industrial cooperation and personnel exchanges between China and foreign media. On September 5, President Xi Jinping said in his keynote speech delivered at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation that China will launch with Africa an initiative of cooperation on innovation in radio, TV and audio and visual programs. We will make every effort to advance the implementation of this initiative, continue to deepen media exchanges and cooperation between China and Africa and will ensure the attainment of more practical results, so as to make new and greater contributions to building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you to all speakers and friends from the media. Today's briefing is hereby concluded. Goodbye, everyone.

Translated and edited by Xu Kailin, Yuan Fang, Li Huiru, Liu Sitong, Zhang Junmian, Wang Yanfang, Huang Shan, David Ball, Jay Birbeck, and Rochelle Beiersdorfer. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.