Category: NEWS

On October 25, the inaugural Cross-Strait Chinese Culture Summit — Film Forum took place at the China Film Museum in Beijing, attracting nearly a hundred industry professionals from both sides of the Taiwan Strait for in-depth discussions.

Zhang Lei, Deputy Director of the Beijing Municipal Taiwan Affairs Office, emphasized the role of film as a vital medium for cultural exchange, serving as a bridge that connects the hearts of people from both sides. “We welcome young filmmakers from Taiwan to come to Beijing to pursue their dreams and collaborate with their mainland counterparts. Through outstanding films, we can showcase the charm of Chinese culture and convey the shared emotional aspirations of our people,” he stated. He further announced plans to work with industry organizations to create platforms that promote high-level and diverse cultural exchanges between Beijing and Taiwan.

Zhang Pimin, Chairman of the China Film Foundation and former Deputy Director of the National Radio and Television Administration, highlighted the unprecedented development opportunities facing filmmakers from both sides in this new era. “We must keep pace with the times, continually innovate, and enhance cooperation and exchanges in the film industry,” he urged, encouraging a joint exploration of new models and pathways for film collaboration.

Zhu Yanping, a well-known director and screenwriter from Taiwan and Chair of the Cross-Strait Film Exchange Committee, reflected on the deep ties between the Taiwan and mainland film industries. “The exchange of films between the two sides cannot be interrupted, nor can cultural exchanges,” he asserted. He noted that numerous collaborative projects are in the works and the policies for co-productions are progressing. He expressed hope that filmmakers from both sides would “embrace each other passionately” to usher in a new era for Chinese-language cinema.

The forum was guided by the Beijing Municipal Film Bureau and hosted by the China Film Foundation, China Film Group Corporation, and the Beijing Cross-Strait Civil Exchange Promotion Association. Following the opening ceremony, seven experienced industry experts engaged in discussions on “Cooperation and Development of Cross-Strait Films in the New Era,” delving into the current state and future of the film industry, and exploring cultural resources to support young filmmakers from both sides.

Recently, I learned from several parents seeking their lost children that the ninth abducted child in the “Mei Yi Case,” Ouyang Jiahao, has been successfully located. This milestone means all nine abducted children involved in the case have now been found, bringing nine families back together at last.

I reached out to Ouyang Jiahao’s father, Ouyang Guoqi, for confirmation. He shared with me over the phone, “We have already reunited with our son. However, he is currently at work and hasn’t returned home to Hunan yet.” He also mentioned that the police informed them that Jiahao was located using advanced facial recognition technology through big data.

For some background, Ouyang Jiahao was born in November 2002. In 2005, his parents were renting a place in Xian Village, Zengcheng District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province. On May 26 of that year, at around 9 a.m., while Ouyang Guoqi’s wife was busy in the kitchen, their son was playing just outside their rented home. In just a few short minutes, he vanished. Ouyang later discovered that his son had been abducted by a man named Zhang Weiping, who confessed that he sold abducted children through a woman known as “Mei Yi.” After Jiahao was taken, Ouyang Guoqi returned to his hometown in Hunan, relying on farming and odd jobs for survival. For 19 years, he never gave up the search for his son.

Finally, Ouyang Guoqi has found his son, and the long-awaited family reunion is on the horizon. He expressed his profound gratitude, saying, “Throughout this journey of searching for my child, I am extremely thankful to the police and the volunteers who assisted in the search, as well as to other families in similar situations who supported and encouraged each other. Without these people, I wouldn’t have been able to persevere until the end.”

Reporter: Lu Mei, China News Service

Buddhism on both sides of the Taiwan Strait shares the same roots and source. Despite experiencing complex political changes and social transformations, the transmission and exchange of Buddhism between the two sides have never ceased. Recently, Master Ming Hai, Vice President of the Chinese Buddhist Association and Executive Vice President of the China Buddhist Academy, accepted an exclusive interview with China News Service’s “East-West Dialogue” to reflect on the heritage and exchange of Buddhism between the two sides and called for collaboration within the Buddhist community to contribute wisdom and strength for the development of Chinese culture and the peaceful stability of cross-strait relations.

**Interview Excerpts:**

**China News Service: When and how did Buddhism enter Taiwan? What stages have cross-strait Buddhist exchanges gone through?**

**Master Ming Hai:** Buddhism has always maintained a close connection across the Taiwan Strait throughout history, with distinct characteristics at different stages. Since the Ming Dynasty, Buddhism was introduced to Taiwan through immigrants from the southeastern coast of mainland China—not led by specialized monks but integrated with the immigrants’ lives. Early Buddhist beliefs in Taiwan were quite secular, closely intertwined with folk beliefs and Daoism, resulting in a form of dissemination where “gods and Buddhas were indistinguishable.” During the Qing Dynasty, the government encouraged the development of Buddhism, and exchanges between Taiwan and the mainland increased, creating favorable conditions for the further growth of Buddhism in Taiwan.

After the signing of the Treaty of Shimonoseki in 1895, Taiwan was ceded to Japan; however, culturally, the people of Taiwan, especially monks, did not experience a break or isolation from the mainland. Many Taiwanese monks strengthened their interactions with the mainland to resist the Japanese colonial authorities’ influence on Buddhism, maintaining a close connection. During the Republic of China period, prominent Taiwanese monks actively came to the mainland for study and invited mainland monks to Taiwan for teachings. For instance, Master Tai Xu engaged with Taiwan’s Buddhist community through poetry and writings, while visits by Daojie Master and Zhang Zongzai showcased the close ties between celebrated figures from both sides.

After 1949, due to political changes, cross-strait Buddhist exchanges faced a period of stagnation. In 1987, following the lifting of martial law in Taiwan, tentative contacts began primarily under the guise of family visits. The Abbot of Zhongtai Chan Temple, Master Wei Jue, articulated a shared sentiment among the Buddhist communities on both sides, stating, “Before the two sides communicate, religion should connect; before religion connects, Buddhism should pave the way.” In 1989, Master Hsing Yun from Fo Guang Shan led a “promoting the Dharma family visit group” back to the mainland and was warmly welcomed by key leaders, opening a new chapter in cross-strait exchanges.

In 1990, Taiwan’s relevant departments allowed various Buddhist groups to send representatives to the mainland, marking a new phase of interaction. Senior monks from the Taiwan Buddhist community, including Elder Jingliang of the Chinese Buddhist Association and Master Sheng Yen of Dharma Drum Mountain, visited the mainland to seek their roots and make connections, while leaders like Masters Hsing Yun and Sheng Yen actively promoted exchanges. With the realization of comprehensive and direct “three links” between the two sides, Buddhist exchanges expanded significantly, not only through increased movement between monks and believers but also through academic and cultural exchanges such as forums and seminars.

Notably, in 2002, the sacred relic of Famen Temple was invited collectively by the Taiwanese Buddhist community to Taiwan for tour and worship. During the 37 days in Taiwan, millions came to pay their respects, significantly enhancing the emotional bond between people on both sides and embodying a shared vision of peace.

The Chinese Buddhist Association has always placed great importance on friendship and exchanges with the Taiwanese Buddhist community, engaging in extensive cooperation in areas like monk education, charity work, and cultural arts.

**China News Service: What role has Buddhist exchange played in promoting the development of cross-strait relations?**

**Master Ming Hai:** Buddhist exchanges are a crucial part of cultural interaction between the two sides, gathering consensus, uniting public sentiment, and strengthening faith for peaceful stability, prosperous development, and the well-being of the people.

The exchange of Buddhism across the strait is vital for the inheritance and development of Buddhist culture. After Buddhism was introduced to China from India and developed over thousands of years, it has deeply rooted itself in the land, becoming an indispensable part of Chinese culture. As a shared cultural heritage, its inheritance requires the joint effort of the Buddhist communities on both sides. Through exchanges, practitioners can learn from each other’s experiences in religious practice and cultural heritage, strengthening their ability to tackle contemporary challenges facing Buddhism. Taiwan’s Buddhist community has many advanced experiences in organization and social charity, whereas mainland Buddhism has accumulated rich resources in temple construction and classic studies. By engaging in regular visits, ceremonies, and discussions, both sides can leverage each other’s strengths, thereby advancing the continuous development of Buddhist culture and making positive contributions to the prosperity of Chinese culture.

Moreover, Buddhist exchanges can transcend geographical and political barriers, linking the people of both sides. Through pilgrimages and visits, these interactions have facilitated countless grassroots exchanges, improving mutual understanding. Taiwanese believers visiting sacred sites in the mainland, like Putuo Mountain and Wutai Mountain, or venerating ancestral halls, experience the ancient history and cultural legacy, while mainland devotees visiting Taiwan can witness its active engagement in social charity and environmental efforts. These reciprocal interactions deepen the understanding of each other’s cultural lifestyles, helping to eliminate misunderstandings and foster respect.

As Buddhism shares common roots, it embodies the historical and cultural memories of both peoples. Through exchanges, they can jointly inherit and promote Buddhist cultural heritage, enhancing their sense of identity and belonging to Chinese culture. Buddhist culture is expressed not only in rituals and practices but also in art, architecture, and music. The Buddhist communities have organized arts exhibitions and concerts, highlighting Buddhism’s significant role in cultural exchanges. These events have further illuminated the deep connections between the two sides.

Buddhism emphasizes compassion and peace, serving as a resource for resolving conflicts and fostering dialogue. The exchange and cooperation between the two sides’ Buddhist communities contribute not only to the peaceful development of cross-strait relations but also provide a model for global interreligious dialogue.

**China News Service: Looking ahead, how can the Buddhist communities on both sides jointly promote excellent traditional Chinese culture and peaceful development of cross-strait relations?**

**Master Ming Hai:** Promoting excellent traditional Chinese culture and advancing peaceful cross-strait relations is a vital mission for both sides’ Buddhist communities. We believe that further strengthening communication and cooperation at all levels is essential. The Buddhist associations should fully utilize various platforms and mechanisms for exchanges through events, seminars, and lectures, learning from each other’s achievements in Buddhist research, cultural inheritance, and talent cultivation. Exploring better ways to promote the Dharma and advance Chinese culture collectively is essential. We should encourage and support mutual visits between Buddhist organizations on both sides to enhance understanding of each other’s Buddhist practices and cultural nuances. This will help break down barriers, build trust, and lay a solid foundation for the peaceful development of cross-strait relations.

As a treasure of Chinese culture, Buddhism’s profound cultural heritage and widespread social influence provide rich resources and inspiration for cultural transmission and innovation. Buddhist murals, sculptures, music, and literature are crucial components that not only reflect the deep meanings of Buddhist teachings but also embody the uniqueness of Chinese culture. Through enhanced collaboration, the two sides’ Buddhist communities can showcase the diversity and inclusiveness of Chinese culture to the world, bolstering cultural confidence and collaborating on the preservation and publication of Buddhist texts, ultimately contributing to the Heritage and dissemination of Chinese culture.

Buddhism’s teachings on compassion and equality resonate well with the goal of peaceful cross-strait relations. By strengthening interactions, the Buddhist communities can foster understanding and trust, providing spiritual support to resolve differences and promote collaboration. Additionally, leveraging their influence, these communities can disseminate messages of peace within society, creating a favorable atmosphere for integration and development in cross-strait relations.

Looking ahead, we hope that the Buddhist communities on both sides can join forces and work together to contribute their wisdom and strength towards the development of Chinese culture as well as the peaceful stability of cross-strait relations.

**Interviewee Profile:**

**Master Ming Hai** graduated from the Philosophy Department of Peking University in 1991 and became a monk under Master Jing Hui in 1992. He has lineage in Linji and Cao Dong schools of thought. He currently serves as Vice President of the Chinese Buddhist Association and Executive Vice President of the China Buddhist Academy, as well as the abbot of Bailin Zen Temple in Hebei. He is a member of the National People’s Congress and a standing member of the Hebei Provincial Political Consultative Conference, also serving as editor of “Dharma Sound (English)” and “Dharma Source” journals. He has published works including “Buddhist Language of Huadu” (edited), “Zen Heart: Three Noes”, “Talks on the Gateless Barrier”, and “Outline of Life Zen” (chief editor).

On October 12, Hangzhou held a launch meeting for a pilot program focused on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) interventions for scoliosis among children and adolescents. This initiative involves collaboration between various departments, including health, education, sports, and disease control, to strengthen the spinal health of young individuals.

During the event, Zhang Qiang, the director of the Zhejiang Province Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, explained that scoliosis is a common health issue during the growth of adolescents. It has now become the third largest health problem affecting Chinese children and teenagers, following obesity and myopia. Scoliosis not only impacts physical development but can also affect psychological well-being, making timely prevention and control crucial.

Zhang elaborated on scoliosis, defining it as the lateral curvature of one or more vertebrae in the spine, typically accompanied by rotation and changes in the curvature of the spine in various planes. He noted that a research team observed nearly 300 cases of idiopathic early-onset scoliosis and discovered that common TCM constitutions among these patients included “harmonious,” “qi deficiency,” and “yang deficiency.”

“We focus on TCM interventions that are about preventing illness before it starts,” Zhang stated. “If adolescents have poor posture without a diagnosis of scoliosis, exercises and dietary interventions can be beneficial. For those already diagnosed, common TCM treatments include massage, acupuncture, and if the condition worsens, certain manual therapy techniques may be employed.”

Ying Xumin, the deputy director of the Hangzhou Health Commission, emphasized that the pilot program will leverage traditional Chinese medicine to create a comprehensive prevention and control plan for scoliosis, including quality control standards and evaluation systems to manage the entire process effectively.

The initiative will see health departments in various districts of Hangzhou work with schools, hospitals, families, and communities to establish a complete diagnostic and treatment service network for scoliosis screening and health management among students. Medical institutions across the city will also set up specialized clinics to facilitate referrals from communities to hospitals, ensuring an efficient “medical, prevention, and rehabilitation” operational mechanism.

Xu Xuqing, deputy director of the Zhejiang Provincial Health Commission, expressed the goal of establishing a training model for TCM intervention teams through this pilot program. This aims to accelerate the cultivation of professionals capable of delivering more scientific and advanced TCM services, while enhancing advocacy and expanding the influence and reach of the pilot work through experience-sharing and innovation.

The event also presented students and parents with a special health gift: the “Stand Tall” package, which includes an engaging cartoon character representing youth spinal health, self-screening tutorials for scoliosis, instructional videos for TCM exercises, a health map for scoliosis care in Hangzhou, direct referral coupons, and dietary recommendations for spinal well-being.

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

In a bold response to Umar Ganduje, the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) issued a warning against any attempts to manipulate the upcoming governorship election in Ondo State on November 16. They cautioned that such actions would lead to chaos and serious repercussions.

Today, PDP governors are convening to finalize plans regarding the proposed National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. In addition, the PDP caucus in the House of Representatives is scheduled to meet with the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party.

Ganduje had expressed confidence that the APC would successfully “capture” the South-West by winning the Ondo State election during a stakeholders’ meeting in Akure, held on Sunday. He emphasized the ruling party’s commitment to unifying all six states under the progressive movement, aiming to bolster President Bola Tinubu’s support ahead of the 2027 general elections.

While rallying support for APC candidate and incumbent governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Ganduje refrained from disclosing the party’s strategic approach to winning the election.

In a swift rebuttal, Debo Ologunagba, the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, reminded Ganduje that Ondo State should not be underestimated. “We all have lessons from history. The events of 1963 and 1983, particularly the ‘operation wetie’ phase, remain vivid in our memories, showcasing the backlash against imposing unpopular candidates,” he remarked.

Ologunagba stressed that any attempts to manipulate the upcoming election would be met with strong resistance. He called on security agencies to warn Ganduje about the potential consequences of his provocative statements, citing the threats to democracy from unchecked statements and actions of political figures seeking power at any cost. “It’s crucial for him to learn from history,” Ologunagba urged.

As for the forthcoming governors’ meeting, Bala Mohammed, the chairman of the PDP governors’ forum and governor of Bauchi State, confirmed that discussions will focus on finalizing details for the NEC assembly. The meeting could take place virtually or in person in Abuja. Sources indicate that the governors aim to reach a consensus to provide a favorable outcome for the acting national chairman, Amb Iliya Damagum.

Plans are in motion for the PDP caucus in the House of Representatives to engage with the NWC in an effort to apply pressure for the NEC meeting, scheduled for Thursday. The results of this meeting will inform the deliberations among the governors.

However, the PDP governors appear divided, with some supporting Damagum’s continuation while others advocate for a shift in leadership, aiming to represent the North Central zone. Meanwhile, the reconciliation committee led by Olagunsoye Oyinlola continues its efforts at the party’s national secretariat. Following their meetings with the National Assembly caucus, they plan to report their findings to the NWC soon.

Oyinlola emphasized the necessity of unity within the PDP for future progress. “From our engagements with Senators and House members, it’s clear that unity is essential for our advancement,” he stated, though he refrained from revealing specific outcomes from their discussions.

On October 11th, at the 2024 Wuhan Open, Chinese players Zheng Qinwen and Wang Xinyu both secured their spots in the semifinals, setting the stage for a “China Derby.” This marks the first time two Chinese players have met in the semifinals of a WTA 1000 event.

Wang Xinyu was the first to make headlines that day, overcoming Russia’s Alexandra Alexandrova in a nail-biting match. After saving match points in the decisive third set, she rallied to victory, earning her first-ever semifinal appearance in a WTA 1000 singles event. Reflecting on this significant win, Wang stated, “It was an extremely tough match. Both of us gave it our all, and winning really means a lot to me.”

Later that evening, another pivotal match took place as Zheng Qinwen faced off against Italy’s Jasmine Paolini. Zheng dominated the first set with a score of 6-2, but Paolini bounced back, taking the second set 6-3. The final set was a fierce battle, with Zheng ultimately emerging victorious at 6-3.

Zheng commented on her performance, saying, “Staying stable under my opponent’s aggressive play wasn’t easy. This victory feels absolutely exhilarating.” Looking ahead to the semifinals, she noted that the presence of two Chinese players in the final four indicates a rising level of talent in China’s tennis scene.

In other matches, two-time Wuhan Open champion and top seed Aryna Sabalenka, along with American player Coco Gauff, each defeated their respective opponents, setting up an exciting next round as they compete for a spot in the finals.

Photographer Stephen Iliffe, a deaf artist, recently unveiled an exhibition titled “Deaf Mosaic” at Nottingham University Hospitals. This exhibition is part of the celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of audiology services at Ropewalk House in Nottingham.

Can you tell us more about the purpose of the “Deaf Mosaic” exhibition?

Iliffe explained that the exhibition aims to showcase “positive role models” for individuals living with hearing difficulties. Featuring 42 portraits, the exhibition highlights the achievements of deaf individuals from various backgrounds, including fashion models, athletes, TV chefs, and scientists.

Growing up, did you have any role models who inspired you in your journey as a deaf individual?

“I often felt like I was the only deaf person in the world during my childhood,” Iliffe shared. He noted the importance of having role models and added, “The audiology staff were great, but after each appointment, I’d return to a world filled with prejudices and barriers.” He expressed a desire for today’s deaf children and adults to have earlier access to role models, like architect Martin Glover and athlete Jodie Ounsley, encouraging them to pursue their dreams.

Samantha Baines, an author, actor, and comedian featured in the exhibition, shared her personal experience with hearing loss. How did that experience shape your perspective, Samantha?

Baines recounted the shock she felt upon learning about her hearing loss. “If I had encountered the ‘Deaf Mosaic’ exhibition back then, it would have provided much-needed reassurance,” she stated. Baines described her initial fears about her career and life, noting, “I had never met anyone in my age group who was deaf, and I felt very alone.” She emphasized the importance of seeing role models during her struggles, saying, “It would have been a huge boost to see vibrant, multi-faceted deaf individuals achieving remarkable things.”

What feedback have you received from the audiology staff about this exhibition?

Jason Smalley, head of audiology at Ropewalk House, shared, “These engaging images are fantastic for patients, and we hope they will help them understand that deaf people can achieve anything.”

In the end, what do you hope visitors take away from the “Deaf Mosaic” exhibition?

The exhibition aims to empower those with hearing loss and to provide visibility of what is possible for deaf individuals, showcasing the diversity and accomplishments of their community.

In a recent interview, Oxfam’s senior climate justice policy adviser, Chiara Liguori, discussed the alarming findings of a new report that highlights the significant impact of the wealthy elite on global carbon emissions. The research reveals that the carbon footprint of the world’s richest 1% is exacerbating issues like hunger, poverty, and premature death.

Liguori explained that the extravagant lifestyles of billionaires—characterized by luxury yachts and private jets—are making it increasingly difficult to maintain global temperature increases below 1.5C. The stark reality, according to the Oxfam analysis, is that if everyone emitted greenhouse gases at the rate of an average billionaire, we would exhaust our carbon budget in less than two days. This is a shocking contrast to the current projection of four years if emissions remain steady.

As governments gear up for budget announcements, including the UK’s upcoming fiscal plan and the Cop29 climate summit in Baku, Oxfam advocates for substantial taxation on extreme wealth. Liguori emphasized that higher taxes on ultra-rich individuals could fund the transition to renewable energy and provide support for those most affected by climate change.

The report highlights that the fifty wealthiest billionaires produce more carbon in less than three hours than an average British person emits over their entire lifetime. On average, billionaires take 184 private jet flights annually, resulting in emissions equivalent to what an average person would create in 300 years. Notably, Jeff Bezos’s private jets accrued almost 25 days in the air within a year, releasing as much carbon as a typical Amazon employee would in 207 years.

When asked about potential solutions, Liguori pointed out the pressing need for governments to implement new taxes on climate-destructive luxury items such as private jets and superyachts. She stressed that action is essential, particularly as Oxfam’s findings suggest that the consumption emissions of the richest 1% could lead to 1.5 million additional deaths by 2100.

Liguori concluded by underscoring the urgent dual need to address both climate change and rising inequality. She noted, “This report demonstrates that implementing fairer taxes on extreme wealth is critical to accelerating climate action and combating inequality. These luxury items are not merely symbols of excessive wealth; they pose a direct threat to both humanity and the planet.”

On October 27, Wang Liwen reports from Chengdu for China News Service that the aroma of cooking fills the air in a community restaurant in Chengdu’s Jinjiang District. With just 120 grams of shredded pork, 150 grams of shredded green bamboo shoots, and 30 grams of shredded wood ear mushrooms loaded into a preparation box, a user simply selects the “Fish Flavored Shredded Pork” option. The intelligent cooking machine springs to life, preheating, adding oil, following the order of ingredients, and quickly stir-frying everything to perfection. In just 63 seconds, a beautifully plated dish is ready to be served to eager diners.

As technology advances, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the restaurant industry continues to expand. China’s first “certified” AI restaurant robot has made its debut in Beijing, while an intelligent coffee machine in a Shanghai park offers over 50 different flavors of coffee. The emergence of AI chefs is creating what some call a “catfish effect,” spurring changes and developments throughout China’s culinary landscape.

Walk into a bustling restaurant kitchen, and you’ll find five smart cooking machines, each showcasing their abilities to fry, sauté, cook, and deep-fry. Staff assist in operating these machines, preparing ingredients, and packaging dishes. Thanks to this human-machine collaboration, the establishment can serve up to 600 customers in a single day.

Diner Yang Junfei marvels at the array of dishes presented on his table, which includes classics like twice-cooked pork, mapo tofu, and pickled fish. “It’s unbelievable,” he exclaims. “The taste is great, and the service is fast. You wouldn’t guess that a machine cooked it unless the owner told you.” During peak dining hours, he received nearly ten different dishes in under half an hour.

Huang Tianyong, the brand founder of the restaurant, breaks down the economics. Cooking spicy chicken manually takes 8 to 10 minutes and costs between 7 to 13 RMB (about $1 to $2), whereas the cooking machine only requires 3.5 minutes at a minimal energy cost of around 0.5 RMB. Since rebranding in 2019 and relying on their proprietary cooking machines, Huang has opened over 30 Sichuan cuisine restaurants across China and is expanding to locations in the U.S., Germany, and Singapore.

Similarly, Ma Changyin, the owner of a renowned dining chain in Chengdu’s Jinniu District, is exploring the potential of smart cooking machines. Since introducing one in July, he notes, “The low cost and high stability are the machine’s biggest advantages, making it well-suited for hospitals, universities, and catering events.” Having worked in the industry for about 30 years, the chef acknowledges that a single cooking machine struggles to meet the diverse dish preferences of walk-in customers and can fall short with certain dishes like cold and marinated items.

For local chef Luo Jian, the charm of an “AI chef” lacks the authentic touch. He believes that the interaction between ingredients and cooking times is rooted in a chef’s experience, which cannot be easily replicated by machines. Nonetheless, he appreciates the affordable prices, stating, “Eating out is all about convenience and value.”

Lian Xiangjian, an agent for a brand of cooking machines, emphasizes that the true strength of these machines lies in their ability to create a platform that utilizes big data to offer insights to restaurant managers, potentially paving the way for a new “skill payment” model. He explains that his brand’s 3,400 machines operate daily in kitchens across different locations, and through promotion and integration, they could eventually lead to a comprehensive global “cloud recipe” database. This would allow restaurants to access menus online, enhance their service capabilities, and foster continuous innovation in new dish creation.

Yuan Xiaoran, Executive Vice President of the Chengdu Restaurant Industry Association, analyzes this trend, noting that advancements in online payment, smart ordering, unmanned delivery, and big data analytics for customer preferences are gradually transforming each aspect of the restaurant industry. This digital shift is enhancing service efficiency and optimizing customer experience, further promoting the industry’s transformation. Given their convenience, efficiency, and replicability, smart cooking machines are playing a significant role in helping Sichuan cuisine expand internationally. Yuan urges restaurateurs to embrace this change and engage in the wave of digital transformation, while hoping that digital trade companies take the time to understand industry needs, providing precise, efficient solutions that can truly invigorate the culinary scene.

We’re interested in hearing from individuals who have worked or are currently working as production runners. Richard E Grant recently highlighted how underappreciated these roles can be, and we want to dive deeper into this experience. If you’ve worked as a runner, whether in the past or present, how long have you been in the role, and what has your experience been like?

What tasks have you handled, and do you have any standout moments that you recall vividly?

If you’d like to share your insights about being a runner on a film or TV set, please fill out the form below. We’re eager to hear your story, especially if you’re 18 or older—feel free to remain anonymous if you’d prefer.

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