China's global English TV channel hits the air
24-hour channel expected to reach N. America, Europe, Africa by end of 2010
Last Updated: Thursday, July 1, 2010 | 10:44 AM ET
CBC News
The logo for CNC World, which is available through satellite and on the internet, is shown. (Xinhua)China has launched a 24-hour, global English-language TV network.
"The English service will provide international and China news with a Chinese perspective to global audiences," Wu Jincai, head of the new China Xinhua News Network Corporation (CNC), said on Thursday about CNC World.
The channel is an offshoot of state-run Xinhua, China's official news agency.
Much like its counterparts in the rest of the world, CNC World features breaking news, feature reports and weather updates. Its content is split between 70 per cent world news and 30 per cent domestic news.
A big difference, though, is its objective. Experts say the channel's main aim is to provide a China-friendly perspective on stories, especially on issues such as Tibet and human rights.
Jincai insists though that CNC World is a "not a propaganda station."
The Chinese government announced a $6.5-billion US plan few years ago to raise the country's profile by expanding Xinhua, state broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV) and the People's Daily, the newspaper of the Communist Party.
'China ... wants to spread its message to the world'
"As the country gains more prominence and confidence on the world stage, China naturally wants to spread its message to the world," said Yu Guoming, a journalism professor at People's University in Beijing. "This expansion abroad will help outsiders better understand China."
Last year, CCTV launched a 24-hour channel, CCTV International Arabic, airing in 22 countries and reaching a total population of nearly 300 million people.
Zhao Peng, vice-director of the CNC's administrative board, indicated on Thursday his company is looking to set up 30 channels around the world, providing a variety of programming.
"We are doing a profitable business. In 10 years, the global news industry is predicted to expand 30 times from what it is now and we see the potential," Zhao said.
CNC World is available through satellite and on the internet.
It is first broadcasting on cable in Hong Kong and is expected to expand its cable service to North America, Europe and Africa by the end of the year.
With files from The Associated PressShare Tools
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