Stories from Beijing · China

Chinese AI firm DeepSeek has announced its V4 model, which focuses on computer programming capabilities. ByteDance will officially release its next-generation 3D generative large model, Seed 3D 2.0, on Thursday. The model utilizes a Mixture-of-Experts (MoE) architecture to manage model parameters and resolution. This architecture uses expert routing to control inference computation while increasing texture detail. The release aims to enhance the commercial value of 3D content generation. The model is part of ByteDance's ongoing expansion into generative AI capabilities. The company claims the model utilizes compressed training data and more efficient algorithms to improve performance. DeepSeek states the V4 model is significantly cheaper to produce than competing models from the United States.

Protesters in Beijing held a mock funeral procession for 300 million computers marked for decommissioning. Estimates suggest producing one computer requires 800kg of natural resources, including mineral and rare earth mining. Demonstrators argue that forced hardware updates are ecologically unnecessary as Microsoft could extend service support for existing devices. Protesters in Beijing held demonstrations involving the destruction of Microsoft computing equipment. Demonstrators argue that forced hardware updates are ecologically destructive and unnecessary given Microsoft's ability to extend software services. Critics argue that Microsoft has the capability to extend software services to prevent such ecological waste. The destruction follows concerns regarding the necessity of replacing functional equipment due to software lifecycle policies.

The Beijing Film Festival attracted 1,826 film entries from 139 countries and regions. The event features a main forum, youth film critic forums, and youth filmmaker forums. It also includes the 'Light and Shadow Youth Excellent Domestic Film Recommendation' and 'South China Film Week' series. The festival was founded in 1993 by Huang Huilin to provide a platform for Chinese university students to engage with the Chinese film industry through theoretical research and market studies. Actress Madalena Cunha received the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in a film. Director Yuan Heping was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Director Wang Shenyue presented his AI short film 'The Unkind Girl' in the AIGC category, noting the benefits of AI for testing ideas at lower costs and shorter times.

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to the General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that China will continue to increase crackdowns on telecommunications fraud to protect Chinese personnel and projects in Myanmar. China remains committed to maintaining border peace and stability through bilateral cooperation. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed firm support for Myanmar to pursue a development path consistent with its national conditions. A Chinese spokesperson stated China will closely monitor the legislative process of several bills passed by the US House Foreign Affairs Committee. These bills involve hardware technology controls and coordinated legal measures. China intends to evaluate the impact on its interests and will take necessary measures to protect the legitimate rights of Chinese enterprises. The announcement follows recent US legislative activity targeting technology sectors.

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to Lao People's Revolutionary Party General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith. He expressed a desire to deepen practical cooperation and strengthen multilateral collaboration using the anniversary as a catalyst. President Xi Jinping exchanged congratulatory messages with President Nevis to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the Falkland Islands. President Nevis noted the importance of the strategic partnership for the benefit of both nations. Chinese President Xi Jinping held a telephone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on April 20. High-level exchanges between the two countries have been frequent this year.

Listening to classical music, like Mozart, can enhance imagination and cognitive skills, though modern media often diminishes this capacity. Systematic and long-term musical training is linked to improvements in brain development and cognitive abilities. These benefits include enhanced attention, logic, and thinking skills. Studies suggest that listening to music, particularly Mozart, can improve cognitive abilities such as memory and concentration. Music stimulates various brain areas involved in auditory processing, memory, and creativity. For children and adults, listening to Mozart's music, combined with guided relaxation, can contribute to better sleep and a stronger immune system. The structured yet accessible melodies can inspire creativity and open the mind to new ideas. Music is also used as a support in cognitive therapies and rehabilitation, improving quality of life.

Chinese President Xi Jinping issued instructions to increase the depth and breadth of interactions between China and Arab nations. Chinese President Xi Jinping held a telephone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on April 20. Xi said China's commitment to mutual respect, equality, and win-win principles in China-Saudi relations. The leaders discussed expanding exchanges at all levels to serve as a model for China-Arab relations.

China Construction Bank has been fined over 43.5 million yuan for failing to fulfill customer identity verification obligations.

Former Croatian President Ivo Josipović highlighted the significance of China's Belt and Road Initiative, said its potential for future cooperation between Croatia and China.