The African Union (AU) is working toward its long-term vision of building an integrated, peaceful and prosperous continent by 2063, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said in an exclusive interview with China Media Group.
Youssouf outlined the organization’s mission and responsibilities, recalling that the AU traces its roots to the Organisation of African Unity, founded in 1963 after African nations gained independence from colonial rule. The body was renamed the African Union in 2002 under a new charter and now counts 55 member states.
He said the AU’s Agenda 2063 provides the framework of treaties, protocols and agreements guiding the bloc's efforts to realize "the Africa we want", a continent marked by integration, peace and prosperity.
AU chief highlights Agenda 2063 vision for integrated, peaceful, prosperous Africa
The China Media Group (CMG) held the first rehearsal for the 2026 Spring Festival Gala on Saturday, fine-tuning the highly anticipated TV event amid the festive atmosphere of the traditional Chinese New Year.
The rehearsal seamlessly integrated innovative technologies with vibrant stage visuals, offering a first glimpse of the gala's overall impact under the theme "Galloping Steed, Onward Unstoppable.”
Inspired by traditional Chinese culture, the Year of the Horse gala incorporates zodiac themes that symbolize perseverance and progress. The production merges art and technology, using AI, AR, and XR to create immersive, blended-reality visuals. Horse-themed artistic installations shape a dynamic stage, while original songs and opera pieces convey the spirited ethos of the zodiac year.
Robots, which made their debut in last year's gala, will once again take the stage at the Spring Festival Gala, showcasing the country's technological advancements.
Known as "Chunwan" in Chinese, the gala has been broadcast live annually since 1983 and is regarded as a major cultural symbol for the Chinese New Year celebrations in China. This year's gala will air on Feb 16, the eve of the Chinese New Year.
The gala has been recognized by Guinness World Records as the most-watched annual television program worldwide. Just over a year ago, the Spring Festival itself was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
CMG holds first rehearsal for 2026 Spring Festival Gala
