CNC World, the English channel of Xinhua News Agency’s TV arm CNC, has signed an agreement with Euteslat to reach homes across Europe, the Middle East and Africa from January 1, 2011 using three satellites, the Hot Bird, E=urobird1 and W7.
Launched for the Asia-Pacific region and North America 12 months ago, CNC’s objective is to develop into a global TV network covering breaking news and major political, economic and cultural news around the globe.
Following the conclusion of a three-year agreement signed this month with Eutelsat, CNC World will have access to cable and satellite markets across Europe, the Middle East and North Africa via Eutelsat’s Hot Bird at 13° East. Coverage of the UK and Ireland will be ensured via Eutelsat’s Eurobid 1 satellite at 28.5° East; the channel will be available via a digital platform operated on Eurobid 1 by Arqiva.
CNC has concluded an additional agreement with MultiChoice Africa for carriage of CNC World from January 1, 011 on the DStv pay-TV platform, which broadcasts via Eutelsat’s W7 satellite in over 40 countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
Wu Jincai, deputy editor-in-chief of Xinhua News Agency and chairman of CNC, said in a statement: “With the satellite coverage provided by Eutelsat, an operator of reference in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, CNC World can deliver on its ambition to grow into a global network providing the best quality of service to our viewers.”
Michel de Rosen, Eutelsat CEO, added: “We are delighted to partner with CNC for the rapidly expanding CNC World network. The selection of three Eutelsat satellites by a media agency seeking efficient and fast international distribution testifies to the footprint and access to cable and satellite homes provided by our video positions. We look forward to a longstanding relationship with CNC, and to continuing to meet the requirements of a new player in the international broadcasting landscape driven by objectives of quality and innovation.”