The press conference of WCICO's upgrading was held in Chongqing on November 26. (Photo/Sang Jian)

Chongqing - The Western China International Communication Organization (WCICO) announced on Tuesday its plans to launch ten key projects to upgrade operations, enhance communication platforms, content branding, and international cooperation.

The organization's upcoming projects reflect its ambition to boost Chongqing's profile on the world stage, particularly in key areas like media, culture, technology, and business. Among the ten major initiatives is the upgrade of two flagship media platforms: iChongqing and Bridging News.

As part of its transformation, the iChongqing website will become a comprehensive international city promotion platform, introducing new community service functions. The upgraded site will offer tailored services for foreign residents and international companies operating in Chongqing, providing a one-stop portal for living, working, and investing in the city. 

The Bridging News app will undergo a major upgrade to become a mobile portal focused on western China's opening-up initiatives. It will expand its coverage of industrial finance, global financial trends, investment opportunities, technological innovations, and industry developments. The app will also highlight the "33618" world-class modern manufacturing cluster in western China, providing real-time news and insights for investors, business leaders, and entrepreneurs.

A picture of the Western China International Communication Organization park. (Photo/Chen Zhan)

Another development is the launch of Let's Meet Online TV, Chongqing's first all-English international media platform. This 24/7 live-streaming service will offer high-quality content on culture, business, technology, and tourism in Chongqing and western China, including interviews, documentaries, and news. The platform aims to enhance cross-cultural communication by partnering with domestic and international media, bridging local stories with global audiences, and establishing itself as a leading voice in international media.

In addition, a western audio-visual translation and distribution center will be established in collaboration with Chongqing Broadcasting Group, WCICO, and media production organizations. This center will manage the full copyright, translation, distribution, and overseas release process to promote Chinese audio-visual content globally. The initiative aims to expand the reach of high-quality Chinese productions and boost their international impact.

Another key initiative is the establishment of the Belt and Road Journalists' Station within the WCICO park. The station will improve its infrastructure by offering office spaces, interview areas, and event facilities and providing one-stop services to journalists based in Chongqing.

The launch ceremony of the Belt and Road Jounsalists' Station in Chongqing. (Photo/WCICO)

To support this initiative, WCICO will launch a global talent recruitment drive, targeting positions in areas such as multilingual international communication, technical expertise, project investment, and the management of overseas social media platforms. This effort aims to build a strong team to support the organization’s international expansion.

According to the 2023 China City Overseas Network Communication Capacity Report, Chongqing ranked first in western China and fifth nationally in terms of international exposure, maintaining a position in the top ten for five consecutive years. 

Bridging News Liaison Office in Brazil was created. (Photo/WCICO)

Chongqing's international communication efforts began in August 2018 with the establishment of the Chongqing International Communication Center, the first of its kind in China. In August 2023, the organization was further upgraded and rebranded as the WCICO.

The WCICO aims to become a leading international communication institution with global influence, commercial competitiveness, and market appeal. By 2025, it plans to engage 23 million overseas users, significantly expanding its global presence.