Caterpillar chairman, CEO visits facility in China

Beijing, (ANTARA Nes/ PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT) Chairman and CEO Jim Owens visited Caterpillar's newest prime product manufacturing facility in China, Caterpillar Paving Products (Xuzhou) Limited (CPPX), during his most recent visit to Asia. The CPPX facility produces Asphalt Compactors, Cold Planers and Soil Compactors.

This facility is an essential part of Caterpillar's global strategy to competitively manufacture products in all regions of the world for Caterpillar customers.

"We are continuing to make significant new investments in China to provide our customers here with the world's best products and services," said Owens.

"The paving facility is one of many examples of our commitment to this market."

In addition to supplying paving products to customers in China, CPPX will also supply the Asia Pacific region, Africa, the Middle East and parts of the Commonwealth of Independent States.

"This facility joins our other paving product plants, which are strategically located in the Americas and Europe. It is the centerpiece of our growing paving business in the Asia Pacific region and will ensure Caterpillar's ability to support the infrastructure needs of a growing China," said Mike Baunton, Caterpillar Vice President with responsibility for the Global Paving business.

"CPPX is also a critical addition to our unsurpassed global footprint which will support our worldwide customers."

Caterpillar is also currently building a new engine campus in Wuxi, China and a facility in Suzhou that will produce world-class medium wheel loaders and motor graders.

In addition to its core machinery, engine and component manufacturing locations in China, Caterpillar's integrated service businesses include logistics, remanufacturing, financial leasing, training, marketing and research and development.

Caterpillar Dealers in China continue to expand their network of dealer branches and Cat Rental Stores, which employ more than 5000 people and use the most advanced service tools to provide the best support services in the industries they serve.

"Chinese customers can really count on Caterpillar," said Rich Lavin, Caterpillar's Group President with responsibility for Asia Pacific.

"Being in business is more than just building machines and engines. Caterpillar is a partner and provider of sustainable development solutions for China."

Lavin and other business leaders recently attended the China Development Forum in Beijing, which highlighted social and economic sustainability in China and long-term energy-saving strategy.

Caterpillar helped China build the world's largest coal methane gas power plant, which will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve mine safety and provide an environmentally friendly fuel source to generate electricity.

In February of this year, China experienced the worst winter storm in more than 50 years.

The Caterpillar Foundation made a donation of $150,000 to the Red Cross to assist in snowstorm relief efforts.

In addition, Caterpillar Dealers also provided machinery free of charge to help clear major roads and highways, and generator sets to provide electricity for hospitals and to support telecommunication needs in the eastern region of China, an area where the country was hardest hit.

"Caterpillar has a long history in China. This is our home," said Tom Bluth, Caterpillar Vice President, who is based in Beijing and has responsibility for Asia Pacific manufacturing operations.

"We will continue to look for ways to contribute to the communities where we all work and live," he added. Caterpillar's headquarters for Asia Pacific manufacturing operations was moved to Beijing from Tokyo, Japan in 2006.

For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making progress possible and driving positive and sustainable change on every continent.

With 2007 sales and revenues of $44.958 billion, Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines.

The company also is a leading services provider through Caterpillar Financial Services, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services, Caterpillar Logistics Services and Progress Rail Services. More information is available at http://www.cat.com

SAFE HARBOR

Certain statements in this release relate to future events and expectations and as such constitute forward-looking statements involving known and unknown factors that may cause actual results of Caterpillar Inc. to be different from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements.

In this context, words such as "will," "expect," "anticipate" or other similar words and phrases often identify forward-looking statements made on behalf of Caterpillar.

It is important to note that actual results of the company may differ materially from those described or implied in such forward-looking statements based on a number of factors and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, changes in economic conditions; currency exchange or interest rates; political stability; market acceptance of the company's products and services; significant changes in the competitive environment; epidemic diseases; changes in law, regulations and tax rates; and other general economic, business and financing conditions and factors described in more detail in the company's Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 22, 2008.

This filing is available on our website at http:/www.cat.com/sec_filings We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: Caterpillar Inc.
CONTACT: Kate Wang of Caterpillar (China) Investment Co., Ltd.,
(86-10)-5921-0112,
Mobile, (86)-1350-108-4027,
wang_kate@cat.com
Web site: http://www.CAT.com

COPYRIGHT © 2008

Business: Convergys Relationship Management Solution wins BillingChina Award

Cincinnati & Shanghai, China (BUSINESS WIRE) - Convergys Corporation (NYSE: CVG), a global leader in relationship management, announced today it has received the 2007 Annual Best Billing Product Award from BillingChina, the telecom media in the B/OSS industry in China.

Convergys won the award for its Infinys[R] Series 3 Solution, a highly scalable, end-to-end customer-centric customer care and business support system that supports existing and emerging services across multiple vertical markets. It delivers products and services to market quickly and easily. It serves as a flexible and feature-rich software application that defines new services via configuration without customization. As part of a relationship management strategy, Convergys' billing solutions are designed to drive more value from the relationships its clients have with their customers and employees.

"The purpose of the 2007 B/OSS & IT Industry Excellent Awards is to recognize companies, both Chinese operators and vendors, and people in the B/OSS area who made special contribution to the success of the industry," said Steve Qiao, Managing Director of BillingChina.

"In order to succeed in competitive markets, Chinese operators must deliver products to market quickly and reduce costs," said Iain Hackett, Convergys Vice President, Asia Pacific Region. "Convergys' award winning solution delivers on this mandate by bridging the divide between pre- and post-paid, voice, video, data, and content enabling management of subscriber transactions on a single platform."

With its award-winning software and its broad portfolio of professional and consulting services, Convergys leads the communications industry in the deployment of real-time convergent billing -- including the Quadruple Play of video, voice, data, and wireless -- for cable, wireless, satellite, and wireline service providers around the world.

About BillingChina

BillingChina provides the International Billing & OSS community and their Chinese counterparts with the most comprehensive information on the current development of the Telecommunication Industry. While serving the Billing and OSS market as a "platform of exchange," we are committed to leading the market by offering customers timely, vital resources, and superior services designed to enhance their efforts of competing in this important market.

Based in Beijing, BillingChina has gained a reputation for providing quality products and excellent service to the Chinese and International Telecom community.

BillingChina provides 360 degree information services and promotion services, including B/OSS magazine, www.billingchina.com website, billing e-newsletter, conferences & events, trainings, reports and other customized services.

About Convergys

Convergys Corporation (NYSE: CVG) is a global leader in relationship management. We provide solutions that drive more value from the relationships our clients have with their customers and employees.

Convergys turns these everyday interactions into a source of profit and strategic advantage for our clients.

For 25 years, our unique combination of domain expertise, operational excellence, and innovative technologies has delivered process improvement and actionable business insight to clients that now span more than 70 countries and 35 languages.

Convergys is a member of the S&P 500 and has been voted a Fortune Most Admired Company for seven consecutive years. We have approximately 75,000 employees in 84 customer contact centers and other facilities in the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, and our global headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio. For more information, visit www.convergys.com.

To receive Convergys news releases by email, click on http://www.convergys.com/news_email.html.
(Convergys, Infinys, and the Convergys logo are registered trademarks of Convergys Corporation.) Convergys Corporation

Susan McKay at +65 6248 5198 or susan.mckay@convergys.com
John Pratt at +1 513 723 3333 or john.pratt@convergys.com

ePals online community building cross-cultural collaborations

ePals online community building cross-cultural collaborations and language learning exchanges between Chinese students and their peers around the world ePals executives to demonstrate how Chinese students are collaborating through ePals learning community At Intel Developer Forum in Shanghai, April 2-3

Shanghai, China (BUSINESS WIRE) - With hundreds of classrooms in China now using the education applications of ePals, Inc., teachers and parents worldwide are accelerating the frequency of online collaborations with Chinese students for their K-12 students in regular course work and various independent learning activities. Active in China since 2000, ePals is the largest network of interconnected classrooms in the world, reaching more than 13 million educators and students in 200 countries and territories.

Ed Fish, President and Chief Executive Officer of ePals, said, "China's importance in 21st century world trade and the global economy, the approaching 2008 Olympic Summer Games in Beijing, and rising demand for literacy in Mandarin are key reasons why educators and parents in western industrialized economies in particular are voicing great interest in connecting with Chinese classrooms through ePals. We're hearing from parents, teachers and students around the world that they have a very strong desire to meet and learn from Chinese peers online."

Fish and Tim DiScipio, ePals' Co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer, are attending the Intel Developer Forum this week in Shanghai. ePals, based in Herndon, Va., announced in February that it is one of several companies partnering with Intel on the Intel-powered classmate PC. The classmate PC is an affordable fully functional laptop designed to support collaborative learning environments for students in emerging markets.

"We are working with Intel and its partners to incorporate the global community and learning resources of ePals with Intel's classmate PC,"

DiScipio said. "We also are working with other companies that are supporting education on Intel-based machines, and look forward to collaborating with Intel-based OEMs to target the K-12 education market." ePals was the first company to introduce education applications on the classmate PC that are dedicated to creating a safe online environment. Among these applications are ePals' global community for learning, SchoolMail? and SchoolBlog?.

Demonstrations for Conference Participants, News Media At the Intel conference in the Shanghai International Convention Center, Fish and DiScipio will be demonstrating how elementary, high school and even college students in China use ePals to connect with and learn from students in other countries. The students' communication is often greatly enhanced through ePals' SchoolMail?, which uniquely provides an embedded, instant translation capability for email texts and now accommodates nine widely used languages. This high-quality translation feature encompasses a total of 72 different language pairs. Mandarin to English and English to Mandarin,and Spanish to Mandarin and Mandarin to Spanish are among these pairs.

As of March 28, ePals had catalogued and posted more than 2500 requests from teachers, parents and students for collaborations with schools or students in China. Here is one example from a mother in San Jose, California: "I am looking for an ePal for my daughter.

Anywhere in the world is fine as long as the ages are between 11-13. I am especially interested in ePals from China (my daughter is learning Chinese), the UK (she loves Harry Potter) and in Asia. Thank you!"

Also as of March 28, ePals had posted more than 550 requests from within China for collaborations with students in other countries. Here is one from a high school teacher in Qinhuangdao, a popular Yellow Sea resort city located 270 kilometers (167 miles) east of Beijing: "My students are sophomores majoring in English. Their first language is Chinese. They have studied English for 8 years, but have no chance to communicate with others. They are interested in exchanging culture with others. We are looking for any classes at the same English level around the world. We prefer to correspond by email and to write twice a month or once a week. We look forward to hearing from you!"Leading Online Community for Connecting Chinese Classrooms Around the World ePals quickly became the leading online community for connecting China's classrooms with other classrooms around the world after it was first introduced in China in 2000.

Yaodong Chen, an English teacher at Guangxi Polytechnic College in Liuzhou, a city in central-southwest China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, first began using ePals for web-based language learning in 2002 and since then has worked with more than 700 students.

"ePals is introducing Chinese students to authentic English," Chen said. "It will revolutionize the teaching and learning of English as a foreign language in the Chinese context." Chen's students exchange emails with students in the U.S., U.K., New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Japan, Russia, Ukraine, France, Germany, Italy, Iceland, Ireland, The Netherlands and many other countries in Asia, Africa and Europe.

In addition to multilingual activities and matching classrooms locally and internationally for collaborative learning, ePals fosters critical thinking, reading comprehension, writing skills as well as 21st century skills such as digital literacy and cultural understanding. It includes a wide range of curricula, ranging from self-organizing to highly structured.

The collaboration with Intel is part of ePals' ongoing initiative to accelerate the growth of its global community for learning. Last September, ePals made its award-winning connectivity tools and curricula available at no cost to educators and school systems. This shift from subscription to free access has rapidly accelerated the growth of the ePals community. ePals safely connects more than 350,000 teachers and their classrooms from 200 countries and territories around the world, and is adding more than 2,000 new classrooms each month.

High-quality digital content from National Geographic was threaded throughout ePals.com earlier this year. Initial topics in the National Geographic content include maps and geography, habits, global warming, natural disasters, people and culture, great leaders, water and weather.

ePals also has been embraced by the New Partnership for Africa's Development Council to provide African students and educators with the opportunity to connect with classrooms worldwide through the ePals' Global Community.

The ePals demonstrations will be ongoing during the conference. They can be viewed at the ePals exhibit booth from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 2-3 in the Shanghai International Convention Center. The booth is located at Booth BU30 in the IT CPG area of Level 1 in the Mandarin Hall. Members of the news media are invited to view the demonstrations to see how real Chinese students are learning with students from other countries through the ePals education applications. Fish and DiScipio also are available for interviews during the conference. (To arrange an interview, please call (+86) 13917140427 and ask to speak with Ed Fish. For a back-up contact, please call Amy Gross at (001) 718-813-8053.) For more information about ePals and its products, please visit www.ePals.com or the corporate site www.ePalscorp.com.

More information about the Intel classmate PC initiative can be found at www.classmatepc.com

About ePals, Inc.

Founded in 1996 and merged with In2Books in 2006, ePals offers K-12 students and teachers around the world a safe environment for building and exchanging knowledge based on protected connectivity tools, evidence-based curricula and authentic, collaborative learning experiences. The ePals Global Learning Community? (www.ePals.com) is the largest online community of K-12 learners, reaching more than 13 million educators and students across 200 countries and territories.
The company's mission is to support meaningful learning through collaborative online experiences that empower and inspire.

Primary in Shanghai, April 1-3:Ed Fish, (+86) 13917140427 Exhibitor Booth BU30, IT/CPG Area, Level 1, Mandarin HallShanghai International Convention CenterorAlternate for China-based and international media:Amy Gross, (001) 718-813-8053 Agross@rlmnet.com or U.S.-based media:Rebecca Kilduff, 703-885-3400 RKilduff@corp.epals.com

interzum guangzhou 2008: furniture industry experts to speak

interzum guangzhou 2008: Industry Experts to Speak at Exclusive Seminars on Furniture and Woodworking Technologies, Trends and Kitchens Free Admission for Visitors

Singapore (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - A panel of industry experts will be presenting the latest developments, technologies and innovations on furniture, kitchen production and woodworking at interzum guangzhou 2008. Visitors attending interzum guangzhou 2008 will enjoy free admission to this seminar.

The three-day bilingual seminar, to be held at China Import and Export Fair Pazhou Complex from 27 to 29 March 2008, is designed to allow participants to gain in-depth insights into the furniture manufacturing industry.

Organised by Koelnmesse GmbH and the China Foreign Trade Center, this seminar is an expanded programme of interzum guangzhou 2008, a trade show for buyers and international manufacturers of the furniture and woodworking industry. interzum guangzhou 2008 will be held in conjunction with the renowned China International Furniture Fair and Hometextile China.

Key speakers include:

• -- Mr. Alvin Ren, Technical Support Manager, Greater China of LEUCO
• -- Mr. Andreas Heinzmann, Area Director of Schuler Business Solutions AG
• -- Mr. Bob Sabistina, International Grading Consultant for the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA), of the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC)
• -- Mr. Burkhard Sydow, Managing Director of IMA AG Asia Pacific Pte Ltd.
• -- Mr. Frank Hoewelkroeger, Regional Business Leader, Furniture Products, of REHAU Asia/Australia
• -- Dr. Frank Prekwinkel, Chairman of the Board of IMOS AG
• -- Mr. Jean Soucy, Director, International Sales (Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East) of 2020 Technologies
• -- Mr. John Avram, President of Cross Road Inc. and Avram Inc.
• -- Mr. John Cha, Product Development Manager of BEMIS Ltd
• -- Mr. John Chan, Director of Southeast Asia and Greater China Office of the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC)
• -- Mr. Victor Barringer, President and CEO, Coastal Lumber Company

The seminar programme is as follows:
27 March 2008, 2:00pm to 5:10pm:
Seminar 1: Different Technologies for Different Needs
Topics include:
-- The immediate benefits of honeycomb
-- Heat-activated film adhesive technology
-- Modern edge-banding, honeycomb technology and their applications
-- Which technology for your company needs?

28 March 2008, 2:00pm to 4:40pm:
Seminar 2: The Rules to Follow in Woodworking
Topics include:
-- The U.S. market and hardwood grading rules
-- The future reliability of American hardwood
-- Tooling systems and machining solutions for lightweight panels

29 March 2008: 2:00pm to 5:10pm:
Seminar 3: Latest Innovations and Kitchens in Focus
Topics include:
-- Kitchen and bath business in North America
-- Internet solutions and innovation
-- German kitchens: manufacturing and production management
-- Total flexibility in custom kitchen production

For more details, please visit http://www.interzum-guangzhou.com .

Media Contact:
Kelyn Tan
Flame Communications
Tel: +65-6253-3193
Mobile: +65-9796-7748
Email: kelyn@flamecomms.com
Caroline Yeung
Flame Communications
Tel: +65-6253-3193
Mobile: +65-8228-7319
Email: caroline@flamecomms.com
SOURCE Koelnmesse Pte Ltd

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

Founder of China`s Mengniu Dairy Group, on corporate philanthropy

One of China's foremost entrepreneurs speaks at Harvard Business School, and gives a bold new direction to China's culture of corporate philanthropy

Boston, (ANTARA News/Xinhua-PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Mr. Niu Gensheng, founder of China's biggest milk manufacturer and regarded as one of China's foremost entrepreneurs, today addressed a full audience at the Harvard Business School's Harvard Asia Business Conference 2008, and candidly discussed his thoughts on the state of Chinese corporate philanthropy: what is missing, what needs to be done, the challenges facing philanthropy in China, and how China can become a leader in corporate giving.

"Chinese industry must embrace our national cultural heritage, Confucianism, which extols the virtue of giving," said Mr. Niu. "We must re-embrace these important values." In his presentation, Mr. Niu outlined how the business and entrepreneurs could work together in China to make the nation a leader in the world in terms of per-capita corporate philanthropy.

Already one of China's most successful businessmen, Mr. Niu's approach and methodology are based on his own experience of nine years at the helm of the Mengniu Dairy Group.

Speaking about the responsibilities of corporate citizenship, Mr. Niu outlined some of the company's industry-leading innovations, including the world's largest methane power generator, and the first water conservation and rain water recycling program to be implemented by a company in China. These moves have not only dramatically reduced the company's environmental footprint but also significantly lowered overheads and provided an important competitive advantage.

Mr. Niu also discussed how his company contributes to the communities in which it works, most notably through a recently instituted scheme to provide free milk to every teacher and schoolchild at each of 1,000 schools across rural China. The donation is the first program of its kind in China's history. Average milk consumption in China is currently only 1/4 of the global average, and in rural areas of China, milk consumption is only 10% of the average Chinese consumption.

Furthermore, Mr. Niu advocated a sustainable giving approach to corporate philanthropy. "What is important is that you develop a way to structure a sustainable, ongoing level of giving. That way you can build momentum and make a real difference. Simply writing a check does not necessarily equate to shouldering your social responsibility."

In 2005, Mr. Niu himself broke new ground in corporate philanthropy in China by gifting all his Mengniu Group shares to the Laoniu Foundation, the first time that a Chinese entrepreneur has donated all of his shares to charity. The Foundation, a well planned, robustly managed trust fund that is audited independently, took this initial investment (worth 4 billion HKD at year-end 2007) and has since used the dividends to address its three areas of concern -- education, the medical industry, and the agricultural industry.

In his conclusion, Mr. Niu challenged his fellow Chinese companies, and called on them to raise the overall standard of corporate giving in China. "We are living in times of great prosperity and growth. It is time for our Chinese companies to rise to the challenge and to find a Chinese way to give that is sustainable and which makes a real difference."

Mr. Niu began his career in the milk industry in 1978, starting out as an entry-level bottle washer. Over the following ten years, he built himself up to Vice President of Production Operations, and then in 1999 took the leap of starting his own company, Mengniu Group.

In just nine years, the company has become one of the leading players in the dairy industry in Asia, and is set to be one of the world's top 20 dairy manufacturers by 2011.

Mr. Niu has been commended as one of "China's Top 10 Philanthropists" by China's Ministry of Civil Affairs. In addition, he was named among one of the "Ten most important people who have changed China's way of life". Phoenix Weekly, a top-tier Chinese publication, named Mr. Niu, alongside Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, and Li Jiacheng, "One of the top four philanthropists in the world." CCTV deemed him the "2003 Businessman of the Year".

Added Mr. Niu, "I truly believe China can take to the world stage in terms of philanthropy. We can take our model, and really make a difference in many places around the globe."

For more information, please contact:
Sally Zhang
Tel: +86-10-8520 6578
Email: sally.zhang@ogilvy.com
SOURCE Mengniu Dairy Group

COPYRIGHT © 2008

Wyeth to Invest $280 Million to Build State-of-the-Art Nutritional Manufacturing Facility in China

Madison, N.J. and Suzhou (ANTARA/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Wyeth (NYSE: WYE) announced today that it is investing $280 million to build a state-of-the-art nutritional manufacturing facility in Suzhou Industrial Park, Jiangsu Province, China. The new facility will primarily produce infant formula milk powder and other nutritional products. When completed, the site will be one of the world's largest nutritional manufacturing facilities.

"This investment reflects Wyeth's long-term commitment to pediatric nutrition, as well as the recognition that China is now the fastest-growing market for Wyeth's worldwide nutritional business. When completed, this facility will enable us to meet the growing demand for nutritional products in the Chinese market," said Robert Essner, Wyeth's Chairman of the Board. "A key element of our Company's mission is ensuring that infants and children have access to the best and highest-quality products. This site will help us achieve this objective."

The new facility will become part of Wyeth's global nutritional manufacturing and supply network and will feature state-of-the-art technology for manufacturing milk powder for infants and young children.

Construction at the site started this month, and the plant is scheduled to be operational by late 2010. At full operation, the plant is expected to employ about 500 employees. Products made at this facility will primarily supply the local market.

About Wyeth Pharmaceuticals
Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, a division of Wyeth (NYSE: WYE), has leading products in the areas of women's health care, infectious disease, gastrointestinal health, central nervous system, inflammation, transplantation, hemophilia, oncology, vaccines and nutritional products.

Wyeth is one of the world's largest research-driven pharmaceutical and health care products companies. It is a leader in the discovery, development, manufacturing and marketing of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, biotechnology products and non-prescription medicines that improve the quality of life for people worldwide. The Company's major divisions include Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, Wyeth Consumer Healthcare and Fort Dodge Animal Health.

The statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements based on current expectations of future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties include the inherent uncertainty of the timing and success of, and expense associated with, research, development, regulatory approval and commercialization of our products, including with respect to our pipeline products; government cost-containment initiatives; restrictions on third-party payments for our products; substantial competition in our industry, including from branded and generic products; data generated on our products; the importance of strong performance from our principal products and our anticipated new product introductions; the highly regulated nature of our business; product liability, intellectual property and other litigation risks and environmental liabilities; uncertainty regarding our intellectual property rights and those of others; difficulties associated with, and regulatory compliance with respect to, manufacturing of our products; risks associated with our strategic relationships; economic conditions including interest and currency exchange rate fluctuations; changes in generally accepted accounting principles; trade buying patterns; the impact of legislation and regulatory compliance; risks and uncertainties associated with global operations and sales; and other risks and uncertainties, including those detailed from time to time in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our current reports on Form 8-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and annual report on Form 10-K, particularly the discussion under the caption "Item 1A, RISK FACTORS." The forward-looking statements in this press release are qualified by these risk factors. We assume no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

For more information, visit www.Wyeth.com

SOURCE Wyeth

CONTACT: Media Contacts: Qing Xi of Wyeth China,
+021-5252-4633; or
Kylie Park of Wyeth Nutritionals,
+1-61-2-8850-8268;
or Kevin Wiggins of Wyeth Pharmaceuticals,
+01-(484)-865-5158; or
Investor Contact: Justin Victoria or Wyeth,
+1-973-660-5340

Web site: http://www.wyeth.com

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

Cowen Group to acquire Latitude Capital Group

New York and Hong Kong (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - The Cowen Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: COWN) announced today that it had signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of Latitude Capital Group, a boutique investment bank headquartered in Hong Kong with offices in mainland China.

The proposed business combination, which has been approved by both companies' boards of directors, will significantly enhance Cowen's activities in Asia and provide a platform for future growth of its sector-focused investment banking strategy across the region.

Subject to customary closing conditions and Hong Kong SFC approval, the transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2008.

Latitude will be renamed Cowen Latitude Asia upon the closing of the transaction. Frank K. Au, currently President of Latitude, will become Chief Executive Officer of Cowen Latitude Asia and will join Cowen's investment banking operating committee.

The acquisition of Latitude provides a number of benefits and opportunities for Cowen, including:
- The addition of a highly qualified team of professionals located in Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai, providing Cowen with an immediate leading capability in the highest growth markets in Asia;
- Access to an impressive roster of clients and relationships in Asia that matches well with Cowen's global growth industry focus;
- Strong relationships with multinational clients actively seeking acquisitions in China, and a combined ability to expand this cross-border buyside advisory practice;
- The combined ability to deliver a comprehensive range of financing and advisory solutions to growth company, venture capital and private equity clients in Asia.

"We have worked with the professionals at Latitude in the past and feel fortunate that they have agreed to join Cowen," said Greg Malcolm, Chief Executive Officer and President of Cowen.

Mr. Malcolm further noted that "Asia, and in particular China, is a critical market for both our corporate and investor clients and we expect that the region will become more important over the coming years.

The acquisition of Latitude gives us the platform to deliver unique access and insights to our clients and we are confident that we can help the Latitude team materially expand their business."

Frank K. Au, President of Latitude, said: "In addition to our traditional M&A advisory and private placement services, Latitude will now be able to provide significant capital markets capabilities to our clients.

"Latitude will leverage Cowen's leadership position in IPOs, Convertibles, PIPEs, registered direct offerings and registered follow-on offerings to bring a much broader suite of solutions to our clients in Asia.

"In addition, we will also be able to take advantage of Cowen's global industry and transaction expertise in sectors such as Alternative Energy, Consumer, Healthcare and Technology to bring a greater level of value-add and insight to our clients."

Before co-founding Latitude, Mr. Au was the Head of Media investment banking in Greater China for Lehman Brothers Asia.

Mr. Au has extensive investment banking experience across all areas of corporate finance including equity and debt capital raising, as well as mergers and acquisition advisory having worked in both Lehman's New York and Hong Kong offices in the Technology, Telecom and Industrial/LBO Groups.

About Cowen Group, Inc.

Cowen Group, Inc., through Cowen and Company, LLC and Cowen International Limited, provides investment banking services, including underwriting and other capital raising solutions, equity research, sales, trading and mergers and acquisitions advice, to emerging growth companies in sectors including healthcare, technology, media and telecommunications, aerospace and defense, consumer and alternative energy.

About Latitude Capital Group

Latitude Capital Group is an Asian investment banking firm, specializing in China cross-border M&A and private placements. The firm mainly focuses on: (i) serving growth companies in the technology, general industries and healthcare sectors in China; (ii) multinationals and international listed corporates lookingto enter China in Latitude's core industry sectors; (iii) international corporates seeking an Asian/China strategic buyer investor in their business; and (iv) advising Asian corporates looking to grow internationally via acquisition. Latitude Capital Group is headquartered in Hong Kong with offices in Beijing and Shanghai.

Forward Looking Statements
Statements in this press release regarding the expected closing date are "forward-looking" information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, primarily that the closing conditions for the offering will not be satisfied. The Company assumes no
obligation to update the information in this press release.

SOURCE: Cowen Group, Inc.
CONTACT: Jean Calleja of Cowen Group, Inc. Communications,
+1-646-562-1888, Jean.calleja@cowen.com
Web site: http://www.cowen.com

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

HUYA Bioscience announces clinical trial milestones in China

San Francisco, (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - IBC Conference -- HUYA Bioscience International (HUYA), the leader in U.S./China pharmaceutical co-development, today announced the completion of three Phase I clinical trial protocols in China of a promising anti-arrhythmic compound, HBI-3000 (Sulcardine sulphate). The data from the trials support a desirable safety profile at dose levels displaying indications of pharmacologic activity. HBI-3000 is being developed as a potential treatment for both atrial and ventricular arrhythmias.

Anti-arrhythmic drugs are used today to treat patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), a serious condition that afflicts 5.6 million Americans. Anti-arrhythmic agents have also been used for the treatment of ventricular arrhythmias, although most have failed to demonstrate a survival advantage, and in some cases carry significant safety risk.

The main concern with anti-arrhythmic drugs is an increased risk of sudden death (Torsade de Pointes) in patients with underlying organic heart disease such as coronary artery disease, prior history of myocardial infarction and heart failure. A large subset of individuals with atrial and ventricular arrhythmias suffers from these conditions, precluding treatment with most existing anti-arrhythmic drugs. Development of safe anti-arrhythmic agents for use in these patients is needed. Pre-clinical data developed by HUYA and its Chinese partner, along with the Chinese clinical trial data suggest that HBI-3000 may have safety advantages over other anti-AF agents and exhibits broad spectrum ion channel inhibition without pro-arrhythmic activity that suggests it may also be safer to use in treatment of ventricular arrhythmias.

According to Mireille Gingras, Ph.D., CEO of HUYA, "the progress on this exciting new compound validates the efficiency and effectiveness of our co-development model with our Chinese partners. With HBI-3000, for example, we will have the opportunity to collaborate with our Chinese partners on their Phase II trials, which will be valuable in the U.S. development process. We leverage the knowledge and experience of both teams -- in addition to existing Phase I data from China -- to streamline and optimize that process in both countries. Our model sets a new standard for integrated, China/U.S. pharmaceutical co-development."

HUYA's innovative co-development model

HUYA was one of the first companies to recognize the potential of China as a source for novel pre-clinical and clinical stage compounds and pioneered an innovative co-development model. HUYA partners with Chinese research institutions and pharmaceutical companies to leverage and extend their research efforts, accelerate development, and provide a bridge into the U.S. development process and the biopharma market.

This model contrasts with that of large pharmaceutical companies whose approach is to start their own research facilities in China hoping to tap its large biotech talent pool, or that of smaller competitors with "one-off" single compound strategies. With three strategic offices in China, the broadest Chinese compound portfolio, and more exclusive agreements with premier Chinese biotech centers than any other company, HUYA is uniquely positioned to identify and license novel Chinese compounds. Moreover, the strength of its relationships with its Chinese partners ensures a continuous source of these compounds for the future.

One of the key differentiators of HUYA's approach is the assembly of a world-class team of scientific and clinical advisors for each promising new compound, such as HBI-3000. This team collaborates with its Chinese partners and is then able to leverage and extend these efforts as the compounds enter the development process in the U.S, speeding the process and mitigating risk.

The U.S. advisors (announced in a separate release) for HBI-3000 comprise a world class team of scientists and clinicians including Benedict Lucchesi, Ph.D. MD, Peter R. Kowey, M.D., Dennis Roy, M.D., Jefferson L. Anderson, M.D., Eric J. Topol, M.D., and Stanley Nattel, M.D.

About HUYA

HUYA is the leader in U.S./China pharmaceutical co-development, formed to meet the global need for new, untapped sources of pre-clinical and clinical stage compounds. HUYA identifies the most promising new compounds in China and partners with Chinese research institutions to leverage and extend their research efforts, accelerate development, and provide a bridge into the U.S. development process and the biopharma market. With three strategic offices in China, the broadest Chinese compound portfolio, and more exclusive agreements with premier Chinese biotech centers than any other company, HUYA has pioneered the most innovative and productive approach for pharmaceutical co-development between the U.S and China. Further information about the company is available at www.huyabio.com.

Contact:
USA:
Jan Tuttleman, Ph.D.
Vice President, Marketing
HUYA Bioscience International
(858) 798-8800
jtuttleman@huyabio.com
China:
Wen Chen, M.S., MBA
EVP China Operation and Chief Representative
HUYA Bioscience International
86 (21) 51323312
wchen@huyabio.com
Media Contacts:
Amy Berry
(415) 793-2258
amyeberry@comcast.net
Juliet Travis
(510) 452-3771
juliet@travispr.com

SOURCE: HUYA Bioscience International

EDITORS NOTE: HUYA CEO Mireille Gingras, Ph.D., will be available for interviews at the IBC Conference, March 3-4 in San Francisco

CONTACT: USA, Jan Tuttleman, Ph.D., Vice President, Marketing, +1-858-798-8800, jtuttleman@huyabio.com, or China, Wen Chen, M.S., MBA, EVP China Operation and Chief
Representative, +862151323312, wchn@huyabio.com, both of HUYA Bioscience International; or Media, Amy Berry, +1-415-793-2258, amyeberry@comcast.net, or Juliet Travis, +1-510-452-3771, juliet@travispr.com/

WEB SITE: http://www.huyabio.com

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

Micrel previews industry`s hottest new power solutions at IIC China

Chengdu (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Micrel Inc., (Nasdaq: MCRL), an industry leader in IC analog, high bandwidth and Ethernet solutions, today announced that it would be previewing the industry's newest and most innovative power analog IC solutions at the 13th Annual International IC-China Conference & Exhibition.

The show will be held in four locations this year: Chengdu (Feb. 28-29); Shenzhen (March 3-4); Beijing (March 6-7); and Shanghai (March 10-11), China.

Micrel will also participate in the IIC Power Management and Automotive Electronics Vendor Seminars with the schedule detailed as follows . Power Management Vendor Seminars: Chengdu, Feb. 28, 13:30-14:20 p.m.; Shenzhen, March 3, 13:30-14:20 p.m.; Beijing: March 6, 13:30-14:20 p.m.; and Shanghai, March 10, 13:30-14:20 p.m. Automotive Electronics Vendor Seminars: Chengdu, Feb. 28, 15:40-16:30 p.m.; and Shenzhen, March 4, 14:40-15:30 p.m.

Included in the preview will be a fully-integrated 4A synchronous buck regulator, the MIC22400 for 3V and 5V supply rails. With operating frequency programmable from 800KHz to 4 MHz, the IC features built-in sequencing, tracking and ramp control, enabling all power-up sequencing and tracking protocols.

Targeted at the communications, computing peripherals, and high- end consumer markets, the solution is ideal for servers routers, HD DVD recorders, wireless base stations, FPGAs, DSPs, and low voltage ASICs, as well as other high power density applications.

The Company will also preview the MICRF218 the world's first programmable receiver featuring jam avoidance. The MICRF218, which is part of Micrel's QwikRadio(R) family, is targeted at garage door openers and tire pressure monitoring systems. It is the world's first integrated ASK/OOK receiver with selectable IF bandwidth for 300 to 450 MHz operation.

Finally, Micrel will also showcase the MIC94064/5, a series of high-side load switches that extend Micrel's industry-leading MIC9406 x family of high-side load switch products. The MIC9406 x family now covers a wide range of battery-powered consumer and industrial applications that require a variety of turn-on characteristics, including portable computers, cell phones, and personal media devices.

"Micrel's breadth of analog products now includes more than more than 1,500 solutions including Low Noise Regulators (LDOs), Switchers, Switches (USB, High Side, Cable), Hot Swap Controllers, Power Management, MOSFET Drivers, Voltage References, and Power Supervisors," noted Andrew Cowell, Micrel's vice president of marketing for analog products.

"These new devices, from the world's first programmable receiver featuring jam avoidance, to a the smallest fully-integrated 4A synchronous buck regulator for 3V and 5V supply rails, demonstrate Micrel's on-going commitment to providing China with the most innovative and advanced ICs on the market today."

About Micrel, Inc.

Micrel Inc., is a leading global manufacturer of IC solutions for the worldwide analog, Ethernet and high bandwidth markets. The Company's products include advanced mixed-signal, analog and power semiconductors; high performance communication, clock management, Ethernet switch and physical layer transceiver ICs.

Company customers include leading manufacturers of enterprise, consumer, industrial, mobile, telecommunications, automotive, and computer products. Corporation headquarters and state-of-the-art wafer fabrication facilities are located in San Jose, CA, with regional sales and support offices and advanced technology design centers situated throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia. In addition, the Company maintains an extensive network of distributors and reps worldwide.
Web: http://www.micrel.com.

Note:
MLF is a registered trademark of Amkor Technology.
QwikRadio is a registered trademark of Micrel, Inc. The QwikRadio ICs were developed under a development agreement with AIT of Orlando, FL.

SOURCE: Micrel Inc.
CONTACT:
Julieanne DiBene, Marketing Communications, Micrel Inc.,
+1-408-474-1276, Julie.DiBene@Micrel.com
Web site: http://www.micrel.com

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

PW Network enters new licensing agreements with Cubinet

Beijing, (ANTARA News/Xinhua-PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Beijing Perfect World Network Technology Co., Ltd. ("PW Network" or "the Company"), a leading online game developer and operator in China, today announced it has entered into new licensing agreements with Cubinet Interactive Sdn. Bhd. ("Cubinet"), a famous online game operator in Malaysia, to license two of the Company's games. Cubinet will license "Legend of Martial Arts" in Vietnam and "Zhu Xian" in Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.

"Legend of Martial Arts" and "Zhu Xian" are two of the Company's most popular massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) that have been licensed to overseas markets following a number of overseas licenses of "Perfect World II." The Company has obtained sufficient operational experience in China and achieved impressive results in operating "Legend of Martial Arts" and "Zhu Xian" in China. These new agreements boost the number of overseas licenses for "Legend of Martial Arts" to eight and mark the Company's first step to license "Zhu Xian" to four countries within one year after its initial launch.

"Our relationship with PW Network started with an agreement to license 'Perfect World II,'" commented Mr. Andy Choe, Chief Executive Officer of Cubinet. "The solid performance of 'Perfect World II' provides a strong foundation for the future prospects of these latest licensing agreements. Cubinet is dedicated to providing high-quality game products for players in a number of regions, and I believe we have a number of similarities with Perfect World in terms of our objectives and vision. For this reason, I believe 'Legend of Martial Arts' and 'Zhu Xian' will deliver solid results in the Southeast Asia market."

"I'm very pleased that we will be strengthening our relationship with Cubinet through these new licensing agreements," commented Mr. Michael Chi, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of PW Network, "This not only marks another milestone in our international expansion, but I also believe that it will be a successful partnership given the impressive results delivered by 'Legend of Martial Arts' and 'Zhu Xian' in the Chinese market."

SOURCE Beijing Perfect World Network Technology Co., Ltd.

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

CAT acquires usage rights to 494,200 acres for Jatropha division

Singapore, (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - China Agro-Technology Ltd., (OTC Bulletin Board: CAGTF) has acquired the planting and land use rights for 494,200 acres of land in Indonesia for the purpose of generating revenues from a plantation for Jatropha plants.

The agreement was signed on February 5, 2008 with Boulevard Holdings Group Ltd for the acquisition rights in growing Jatropha, managing Jatropha plantations, and harvesting Jatropha seeds to be crushed for its production of non-edible vegetable oil for bio-diesel and its other bio-mass components.

The strategic acquisition allows CAT to diversify its growth and reduce risk in the Jatropha industry. Management believes that the acquisition will be worth over $300 million within five years based on projected global demand for Jatropha by-products. The Company noted that, according to an August 24, 2007 Wall Street Journal article (which was also cited on CNBC on September 14, 2007), Goldman Sachs projected that Jatropha was one of the leading candidates for global biodiesel production.

Jatropha trees produce seeds containing up to 40% oil. When the seeds are crushed and processed, the resulting oil can be used in a standard diesel engine, while the residue can be processed into biomass to power electricity plants. The by-products are often cited as a clean, green and prime source for global biodiesel supply. The price of Jatropha-based biodiesel has historically been highly profitable, ranging from US$650 to US$750 per ton, based on current negotiated market futures.

CAT Founder Chairman Dr. Harry He said, "We expect CAT's Jatropha production path to begin with immediate revenues from the sale of Crude Jatropha Oil ("CJO") from existing harvests. We will concurrently apply our innovative agro-technology processes to accelerate growth and yield for the plantation; we expect that the entire 494,200 acres can be converted to our fast-growth/high-yield technology in just two years. We believe that the new acquisition rights on this one half million acres over the next five years should increase the profit value of the Company."

The new acquisition was completed with 30% cash and 70% newly-issued shares at a premium conversion of US$2.10 via convertible bonds. The acquisition significantly expands CAT's current portfolio of approximately 50,000 acres of Jatropha plantations in Indonesia. CAT previously forecast a fair profit value of US$45 million for the remaining fiscal year 2008 and will continue to focus on Agro-Technological Research & Development for future growth based on its existing profitable operations.

Dr. He continued, "This acquisition represents a major step forward in CAT's strategy to build critical mass and economies-of-scale in production operations. The rights to this extensive tract of land provide us with security for our feedstock which -- when combined with our leading-edge Jatropha cultivation, our Agro-Technology, and our trained work-force -- allows us to accelerate our CJO production in order to meet our revenue targets. CAT's super-hybrid Jatropha plants in our current plantations are able to achieve higher yields of CJO oil seed within a shorter growth period, while positioning the biodiesel market to meet the world's fast-growing demand."

About China Agro-Technology Holdings, Ltd

China Agro-Technology Holdings, Ltd ("CAT") is an ecologically sustainable agricultural technology enterprise that aims at promoting a global reforestation program, generating environmental rehabilitation and serving the acute demands for paper products. CAT is principally engaged in the ecological forestry business and agricultural technology, producer and sale of quality seeds and marketing of agro-technology know-how.

The Company's Directors consider the acquisition of the new land bank to be an addition to the Company's biological assets. With the planting of Jatropha, CAT will broaden its revenue sources and increase its role in the biodiesel markets and "going green" efforts. On the latter, CAT believes that partnering countries could leverage on its genetic engineering plantation technologies to maximize agriculture outputs and generate economies of scale while promoting an ecologically sustainable land environment.

CAT is primarily involved in the ownership, management and operation of Genetically Engineered plantations, the non-tube clone plantations and the marketing of the proprietary rights and technological know-how to the global market. CAT had total revenues of $37 million in the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007, with gross profit of $35 million and net income of $32.8 million. CAT's strength is its group of highly innovative research scientists and agronomists who specialize in the R&D of agriculture and intelligent computer non-tube plant propagation technology. Driven by agro-biotechnology, CAT is able to achieve higher output with a shorter growth period. CAT's Genetically Engineered Eucalypt Trees (GEET) strains are suitable for cultivation at different climatic conditions and are able to grow within just 4-5 years time to a height of 35 to 40 meters, as compared to other species that take about 6 to 8 years.

The Company's trees also yield 50% more in wood timber, about 150 cubic meters per hectare as compared to 100 cubic meters per hectare for those which currently leads the world in eucalyptus production. Other unique features of CAT's GEETs include increased resistance against pests and weeds, the ability to flourish under adverse weather and soil conditions, reduced usage of agro-chemical and growth of at least 8 rotations over a period of 50 years without the need for replanting of new saplings.

Safe Harbor Statement: Under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Except for historical information contained herein, the statements in this news release are forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause a company's actual results, performance and achievement in the future to differ materially from forecasted results, performance, and achievement.

These risks and uncertainties are described in the Company's periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly release the results of any revisions to these forward-looking statements that may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes in the Company's plans or expectation.

Contact:
Ashley Hull
ProPublic Media LLC
hunnyhull@propublicmedia.com

SOURCE China Agro-Technology Ltd.
CONTACT: Ashley Hull
of ProPublic Media LLC,
hunnyhull@propublicmedia.com,
for China Agro-Technology Ltd.
(CAGTF CAGTF.OB)

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

Caterpillar completes acquisition of Shandong SEM Machinery Co

Caterpillar will continue investing in employee development, product improvements and customer support programs at SEM

Qingzhou City, (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT) has received final regulatory approval and completed the purchase of the remaining shares of Shandong SEM Machinery (SEM), a leading wheel loader manufacturer in China. Caterpillar purchased a minority stake in SEM in 2005 as part of its commitment to support its growing customer base in the Chinese construction equipment industry.

"Teamwork is one of Caterpillar's core values, and since our initial investment in SEM, we have collaborated with SEM management and with the Shandong and Qingzhou City governments to make improvements in every aspect of the SEM business," said Rich Lavin, Caterpillar group president with responsibility for Caterpillar's business in Asia Pacific. "Caterpillar has worked together with SEM managers and employees to improve workplace safety, employee training, operational excellence, product quality and the product technology of SEM."

In addition to SEM wheel loaders, Caterpillar core products manufactured in China include hydraulic excavators, track-type tractors, motor graders, paving products, large diesel engines used primarily for marine and power generation applications and generator sets for use in China and the Asia Pacific region. Caterpillar also manufactures components at several facilities in China.

"We are pleased to be part of Team Caterpillar and look forward to sustained growth as we continue to produce high quality products that will meet customer's expectations," said SEM Chairman Wang Chunquan. "We have built a very solid foundation with Caterpillar based on mutual trust and respect, and this strong relationship has benefited the Chinese customers who use SEM products every day."

As a responsible corporate citizen, Caterpillar will continue working closely with the provincial and local governments to sustainably develop the SEM business and support the environment. Similarly, Caterpillar will build on the valuable relationships SEM has with local suppliers and dealers.

"We are committed to bringing the greatest value possible to our SEM customers," said Tom Bluth, Caterpillar vice president with responsibility for Asia Pacific manufacturing operations. "We have already started by introducing new models of SEM products and by providing customers with the ability to finance equipment purchases through Caterpillar (China) Financial Leasing Co., Ltd."

In addition to its core machine, engine and component manufacturing locations in China, Caterpillar operations in China also include logistics, remanufacturing, financial leasing, training, marketing and research and development. Caterpillar's independent dealer network also provides sales and product support to customers across greater China.

For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making progress possible and driving positive and sustainable change on every continent. With 2007 sales and revenues of $44.958 billion, Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. The company also is a leading services provider through Caterpillar Financial Services, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services, Caterpillar Logistics Services and Progress Rail Services.

More information is available at http://www.cat.com

SAFE HARBOR

Certain statements in this release relate to future events and expectations and as such constitute forward-looking statements involving known and unknown factors that may cause actual results of Caterpillar Inc. to be different from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. In this context, words such as "will," "expect," "anticipate" or other similar words and phrases often identify forward-looking statements made on behalf of Caterpillar. It is important to note that actual results of the company may differ materially from those described or implied in such forward-looking statements based on a number of factors and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, changes in economic conditions; currency exchange or interest rates; political stability; market acceptance of the company's products and services; significant changes in the competitive environment; epidemic diseases; changes in law, regulations and tax rates; and other general economic, business and financing conditions and factors described in more detail in the company's Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 3, 2007.

This filing is available on our website at http://www.cat.com sec_filings. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements.

CONTACT: Jim Dugan,
Corporate Public Affairs of Caterpillar Inc.,
+1-309-494-4100, cell, +1-309-360-7311,
dugan_jim@cat.com, or
Kate Wang,
Corporate Public Affairs
of Caterpillar (China) Investment Co., Ltd.,
+(86-10) 5921 0112, cell, +(86) 1350 108 4027,
wang_kate@cat.com
Web site: http://www.CAT.com
(CAT)
SOURCE: Caterpillar Inc.

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

Joint Venture launches Tickets.com into Chinese market

Costa Mesa, California (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Tickets.com, a leading provider of integrated ticketing solutions, has entered into a joint venture with China Sports Industry International (CSII) to provide ticketing and ticketing-related services for sports and associated markets in China, both companies announced today.

"The global economy is growing by leaps and bounds, with China leading the way. Entering the Chinese live event ticketing market is a key part of our globalization strategy. We are extremely pleased to be partnering with a company that has extensive experience working with the Chinese government, as well as having a strong background in sports, culture, business, media and finance," said Larry Witherspoon, CEO, Tickets.com.

A cooperative venture company under the State General Administration of Sports, the governmental agency in charge of sports in China, Beijing-based China Sports Industry International is engaged in a wide range of sports business activities, including negotiating sports sponsorships, managing major sports events, and developing commercial rights of stadiums. CSII also provides international sports public relations services to high-end sports clients. In addition to having trong support from the State General Administration of Sports, CSII has partnerships with international professional sports organizations, entertainment companies, and media agencies.

"U.S. companies are increasingly looking to emerging markets like China as a vital source of growth, but to do so successfully require a keen insight into the challenges, realities and dynamics of doing business here. We're looking forward to helping Tickets.com navigate the complicated business landscape in China and are proud that the company has chosen CSII as its partner," said Mr. Peng Liye, general manager, CSII. "Based on Tickets.com's global vision, success in global markets, and international experience with the Olympics, we're anticipating our joint venture to be highly beneficial to both parties."

Tickets.com has international offices in Australia and the U.K., which provide sales, support and technical services, and additional ticket sales offices in the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Hong Kong and Singapore. A joint venture office is scheduled to open in Beijing during the first quarter of 2008 to provide sales, support and technical services.

About CSII

As a cooperative venture company under the State General Administration of Sports, China Sports Industry International is an international and professional company engaging in a wide range of sports business fields.

With global vision, industry insight, precise market positioning, and professional attitude, CSII provides authoritative and professional consulting service to clients home and aboard. CSII is dedicated to maintaining the company's leading position by bringing in overseas high-profile sporting events and creating professional sport brands with proprietary international property rights.

About Tickets.com

Tickets.com is a premier event ticketing solutions and services provider for thousands of top worldwide entertainment and sports venues. Tickets.com is a subsidiary of MLB Advanced Media, LP, the interactive media and Internet Company of Major League Baseball.

Press Contacts:
North American
Asia-Pacific
Michael Martinez
Ian English
(714) 527-5625
+852 2739 1000
mmartinez@tickets.com
+ 61 2 8536 4500
ienglish@tickets.com
CONTACT: North American,
Michael Martinez,
+1-714-527-5625,
mmartinez@tickets.com, or
Asia-Pacific,
Ian English,
+852 2739 1000,
+ 61 2 8536 4500,
ienglish@tickets.com,
both of Tickets.com
Web site: http://www.tickets.com
SOURCE: Tickets.com

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

Huge majority of Chinese public supports ban on tiger trade

Beijing (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - The Chinese public supports the ban on tiger trade and stands ready to pitch in to save wild tigers, according to the results of a new opinion poll released today.

The face-to-face survey of 1,880 people in Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Guilin, Harbin, Kunming and Shanghai was conducted by Horizon Key, one of Chinas pre-eminent public polling companies. Respondents, who statistically represent the entire adult populations of these cities, were asked questions about their use of tiger products, their preferences for products from wild versus farmed tigers and their attitudes toward conservation of wild tigers and Chinas 1993 tiger-trade ban.

Nearly 95 percent of respondents support Chinas tiger-trade ban. Among those, more than 77 percent felt that keeping the ban was important for Chinas image. Nearly 95 percent also said that they would take action to save wild tigers, including abstaining from the use of tiger products.

The results of this survey present the strikingly clear message that most Chinese people care so much about wild tigers that they are willing to change behaviors that threaten survival of tigers in the wild, said Judy Mills of Save The Tiger Fund, which commissioned the study. With this strong support from the Chinese people, wild tigers can survive and thrive.

However, the survey also reported nearly 50 percent of those polled had consumed what they thought were tiger products. Most used tiger products as medicines or health tonics and had done so since Chinas 1993 tiger-trade ban was put in place.

Among those consumers, nearly 66 percent of the medicine users said they prefer products from wild tigers. Among the tonic users, more than 74 percent preferred products from wild tigers. Among those who used tiger skins, nearly 55 percent preferred skins from wild tigers. In contrast, just under seven percent of both medicine and tonic users preferred products from farmed tigers. Among skin users, just over four percent favored products from farmed tigers.

At present, businessmen in China have bred some 5,000 tigers in hope that the 15-year trade ban will be lifted. These factory-farm owners are lobbying the government to lift the ban, clearing the way for them to make huge profits from the sale of tonic wine made with tiger bones. Meanwhile, tiger experts fear that reopening trade in tiger products from any source will cause a disastrous increase in poaching of the estimated 3,400−4,400 tigers remaining in the wild. For this reason, some say the fate of wild tigers rests with Chinas maintaining and enforcing its trade ban.

The preference for products from wild tigers documented by this survey confirm our fears that lifting Chinas ban will send the message to poachers that its open season on tigers, which would be disastrous for wild tigers, said Grace Gabriel of the International Fund for Animal Welfare.

The primary use of tiger products in traditional Chinese medicine is to remedy arthritic conditions. The traditional Chinese medicine community has won praise from conservationists for finding and embracing effective alternatives. Those petitioning Chinas government to lift the ban are businessmen who stand to make millions of dollars from selling tiger-bone wine.

The 171 countries that are members of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) decided in June that tigers should not be farmed for trade in their body parts and products.

CONTACTS:
Judy Mills in China - +1-202-674-4588 US mobile OR
+86-135-2150-3703
China mobile
Jeff He in China - +86-13-901205447 OR +86-10-64402960
Grace Gabriel in China - +1-508-496-4471 US mobile OR
+86-137-0129-9387
China mobile
SOURCE Campaign Against Tiger Trafficking

CONTACT: Judy Mills of
the Campaign Against Tiger Trafficking in China,

+1-202-674-4588 (US mobile),

+86-135-2150-3703 (China mobile);

Jeff He, +86-13-901205447,

+86-10-64402960,

or Grace Gabriel,

+1-508-496-4471 (US mobile),

+86-137-0129-9387 (China mobile),

both of the International Fund for Animal Welfare

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

Peking University chooses Thomson Scientific`s Century Of Science

Leading Research University is First in China to Purchase 100 Years of Web Of Science Comprehensive Backfile and Cited Reference Data

Philadephia and London, (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Thomson Scientific, part of The Thomson Corporation (NYSE: TOC; TSX: TOC) and leading provider of information solutions to the worldwide research and business communities, today announced that Century of Science(TM) has been purchased by Peking University in China.

Century of Science expands Web of Science with the most important scientific bibliographic and cited reference data covering the period from 1900 to 1944.

Web of Science is a carefully selected and maintained collection of the world's most influential journals across all disciplines. Coverage is truly multidisciplinary with emphasis on quality and superior collection development and can be accessed via the ISI Web of Knowledge, a premier research platform that offers an extensive collection of backfiles to 1945. Launched in January 2005, the Century of Science initiative made available approximately 850,000 articles from more than 200 journals carefully selected from the published research in the first half of the 20th century.

"As a forward-thinking information provider, we understand the importance of historical research information," said Mark Garlinghouse, Thomson Scientific's VP and Managing Director, Asia Pacific. "Century of Science will assist Peking University in becoming a world class university."

In 1999, Peking University was one of the very first Web of Science customers in China and it now joins the growing list of the top research organizations around the globe that invest in Century of Science to support its world class research efforts. While more than 200 universities throughout the world have Century of Science, Peking University is the first academic institution in China to acquire it.

"Century of Science will enable us to track past developments, pinpoint key turning points and determine the future direction our research," said Prof. Zhu Qiang, Director of Library, Peking University.

"This knowledge platform provides us with the history to help build the future and to encourage research interaction and collaboration in China," said Dr. Zhou Hui, Head of Scientific Research Office, Peking University.

For more information, visit Century of Science.

About Peking University

Peking University is a comprehensive and national key university in China, consisting of 30 colleges and 12 departments. While laying stress on basic sciences, the university also pays special attention to the development of applied sciences. Presently, Peking University has 216 research institutes and research centers, 2 national engineering research centers, 81 national disciplines, and 12 national laboratories.

The university effectively combines research on important scientific issues with the training of personnel with specialized knowledge and professional skill. With such diverse branches of learning, Peking University is likely to rank among the world's best universities at the beginning of the next century. For more information about Peking University, please visit http://www.pku.edu.cn.

About The Thomson Corporation

The Thomson Corporation (www.thomson.com) is a global leader in providing essential electronic workflow solutions to business and professional customers. With operational headquarters in Stamford, Conn., Thomson provides value-added information, software tools and applications to professionals in the fields of law, tax, accounting, financial services, scientific research and healthcare. The Corporation's common shares are listed on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges (NYSE: TOC; TSX: TOC).

Thomson Scientific is a business of The Thomson Corporation. Its information solutions assist professionals at every stage of research and development-from discovery to analysis to product development and distribution.

Thomson Scientific information solutions can be found at scientific.thomson.com.

SOURCE Thomson Scientific
CONTACT: Sue Besaw of Thomson Scientific,
+1-215-823-1840,
susan.besaw@thomson.com
Web site: http://www.scientific.thomson.com
http://www.thomson.com
http://www.pku.edu.cn
(TOC TOC.)

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

Arsenal Capital partners establishes presence in China

New York, (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Arsenal Capital Partners, a leading New York-based private equity firm that invests in middle-market specialty industrial, healthcare and financial services companies, today announced that it has established a presence in Shanghai, China to provide its current and future portfolio companies with additional strategic insights, local and regional support, and expanded relationships in order to enhance opportunities for growth and productivity.

Arsenal has named Dr. Steve (XiaoHu) Li, formerly a senior executive with Arch Chemicals, Inc. (NYSE: ARJ), as its first hire in the new office who will help the firm establish its first full-time presence in mainland China. Arsenal's office will be located in the Kerry Building in the center of Shanghai's financial district.

"Through many China-based subsidiaries and joint ventures in our existing portfolio companies, Arsenal has gained considerable experience in the region in establishing lower cost manufacturing facilities, procuring manufacturing inputs, and increasing access to new markets," said Jeffrey Kovach, a Managing Director at Arsenal Capital. "By leveraging that experience and broadening our resources with a local presence in China, we will further assist our portfolio companies in capitalizing on the ongoing globalization of economies and the increasing importance of China and Asia."

Dr. Li joins Arsenal as a Principal after serving with Arch Chemicals, overseeing their offices and personnel in China and dramatically building the company's presence there. "Given the trend toward increased competition and the globalization of markets, we believe there is a heightened need for differentiated strategic insights and capabilities," said Mr. Kovach.

Commenting on Dr. Li's appointment, he added, "Arsenal undertook an extensive search to identify a professional who understands the business landscape in China and Steve has a rare combination of technical expertise, local relationships, and excellent general management skills that will help Arsenal strengthen the China capabilities of our portfolio. We are very pleased that Steve has agreed to join Arsenal in this strategic expansion of our firm. In addition to bringing an impressive combination of skills of his own, Steve will coordinate Arsenal's existing network in the region and draw upon the extensive experience that Arsenal's Operating Partners have in China and Asia," said Mr. Kovach.

Dr. Li spent seven years with Arch Chemicals, most recently serving as Area Director, Asia Pacific/President for Arch China and leading Arch's operations and business in Asia Pacific, including China, Japan, Korea, Australia and Southeast Asia. Prior to joining Arch in 2000, he was a group manager for Bayer Polyurethanes (formerly Lyondell Singapore) and has also held research and development positions in the U.S. for Bostik Inc. and Century International Adhesives & Coatings Corp. Dr. Li received B.S. and M.S. degrees from Nanjing University in China, and a PhD degree in chemistry from Vanderbilt University. He also has an MBA from the University of Louisville's program in Singapore.

"I was attracted to Arsenal's successful track record of disciplined investing, systematic value creation, and their diverse and talented team of professionals. Arsenal's forward-looking approach to investing that led to establishing a presence in China will provide their portfolio companies with unique access to a range of opportunities in this market," said Dr. Li.

About Arsenal Capital Partners

Arsenal Capital Partners is a New York-based private equity firm that makes investments in specialty industrial, healthcare and financial services companies. Arsenal makes investments in sectors where the firm has prior knowledge and experience, and targets businesses that have the potential for further value creation by working closely with management to accelerate growth and leverage the firm's operational improvement capabilities. Arsenal currently has $800 million of committed equity capital. For additional information on Arsenal Capital Partners please visit www.arsenalcapital.com

CONTACT: Chris Tofalli,
+1-914-834-4334,
for Arsenal Capital Partners
Web site: http://www.arsenalcapital.com
(ARJ)
SOURCE: Arsenal Capital Partners

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

Tourism leaders examine employment issue for China`s travel & tourism

Shanghai (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), Travel & Tourism created over 231 million jobs worldwide in 2007, making it one of the world's largest industry employers. Today, the Council announced that over the last year the industry accounted for more than 72 million jobs in China alone, putting China in pole position followed respectively by India, the United States and Japan.

Moreover, in 2007 China's Travel & Tourism industry contributed 12.2 per cent of GDP and the industry's economic activity generated over CNY 3,360 billion (US$439 billion), positioning China's Travel & Tourism economy as the 4th largest in the world, after the United States, Japan and Germany. However Travel & Tourism is expected to grow at an annual rate of 9.6 per cent over the next decade, climbing to 2nd position by 2017.

As a result of this positive growth, China faces increasing pressure on its Human Resources' capacity. China's greatest challenge will be to manage these projections; in order to meet the industry's future demands, China will need to recruit, train, retain and develop millions of people over the next ten years.

Today, Travel & Tourism leaders and Human Resources experts gathered in Shanghai to discuss the issue of China's employment development and how to reach its full economic potential.

WTTC President Jean-Claude Baumgarten opened the discussion, stating that "China needs to focus its financial, human and intellectual resources on supporting, enabling, managing and directing its growth." He continued "the Chinese Government must make a firm commitment to furthering employment opportunities in the tourism industry in China by exempting the industry from permanent residency requirements, so that people can be effectively mobilized and encouraged to stay in Travel & Tourism. This industry should be promoted to the younger generations as a highly regarded career opportunity and the English language should be made a requirement for all Travel & Tourism study programmes and newly hired employees."

Representing WTTC's most supportive Chinese Member - Beijing Tourism Group (BTG) - Liu Yi, BTG Vice President, spoke about how the tourism industry has become a new engine of economic growth for China. Highlighting the positive impact of the Beijing Olympics Mr. Yi said "the Games will have a profound impact on the entire country, but in the long term the Chinese government will need to control the caliber of people working in tourism in order to ensure quality service for the extraordinary growth in tourism arrivals both on a regional and international basis."

Highlighting the demands Travel & Tourism will make on global workforces, Accenture Executive Director Patrick Leung explained how "Globally the travel industry will need about 1.6 million new employees in the next ten years and, as travel is a people business, excellent service skills are a fundamental requirement for success. This presents a major opportunity for growth for the whole Chinese travel sector. With strong leadership the industry will attract and retain the top talent that is required to realize potential growth."

For the full China TSA report please visit http://www.wttc.org/eng/Research Tourism_Satellite_Accounting/TSA_Country_Rep orts/Chinaindex.php

About WTTC

WTTC is the forum for business leaders in the Travel & Tourism industry. With Chairmen and Chief Executives of some one hundred of the world's leading Travel & Tourism companies as its Members, WTTC has a unique mandate and overview on all matters related to Travel & Tourism.

WTTC works to raise awareness of Travel & Tourism as one of the world's largest industries, employing approximately 230 million people and generating over 10 per cent of world GDP.
Please visit www.wttc.travel

SOURCE World Travel & Tourism Council
CONTACT: Louise Oram, World Travel & Tourism Council,
+44 20 7481 8007,
louise@wttc.org
Web site: http://www.wttc.travel

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

Air China confirms Olympic torchbearers and relay route

Beijing, (ANTARA News/Xinhua-PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Air China announced today that in accordance with the principles of "Openness, Impartiality and Transparency," and in line with the Criteria for Selecting Olympic Torchbearers, a list of 20 Air China Olympic torchbearers has been finalized upon the approval of the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad. The Company also announced that the relay route for the torchbearers has been confirmed.

Under the leadership of the vice president of Air China, Song Zhiyong, Air China has selected 20 candidates to represent the Company as Olympic torchbearers.

The relay route for the Air China torchbearers, within the territory of China, is as follows: Haikou (Hainan), Quanzhou-Xiamen (Fujian), Jingangshan (Jiangxi), Taizhou-Yangzhou (Jiangsu), Guilin (Guangxi), Guiyang (Guizhou), Chongqing, Zigong-Yibin (Sichuan), Lhasa (Tibet), Shihezi-Changji (Xinjiang), Dunhuang-Jiayuguan (Gansu), Zhongwei (Ningxia), Yangling-Xianyang (Shaanxi), Yuncheng-Pingyao (Shanxi), Huhhot (Inner Mongolia), Jilin (Jilin), Shenyang (Liaoning), Linyi-Qufu-Taian (Shandong), Shangqiu-Kaifeng (Henan) and Beijing.

The 20 honored torchbearers will help Air China "light the passion and share the dream," spreading the Olympic spirit throughout the country from May 6, 2008 to August 6, 2008. The relay route will also help spread the theme behind the Olympic torch, the "Peace Tour." Ever since the Berlin Olympic Games in 1936, the torch relay has become a key event in communicating the Olympic spirit. Air China is also a proud carrier of the Olympic torch, and as the sole Airline Partner of the 2008 Olympic Games, Air China is performing its commitment to actively ensure the successful staging of the 2008 Games.

About Air China

As China's sole designated flag carrier and the only Airline Partner of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, the Company serves 77 domestic and 40 international cities with an extensive network from its Beijing hub, conveniently linking passengers between China and destinations around the world. In North America, Air China serves New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Vancouver with daily non-stop services to Beijing.

In addition, Air China has established key alliances and relationships with 18 well-established global airline companies, further enhancing its network, providing more travel options for passengers.

For more details, please visit http://www.airchina.com.cn or call at 4008-100-999.

SOURCE Air China
/CONTACT: Han Xiao,
Marketing Brand Management of Air China,
+86-10-6464-5220, or +86-10-8449-3431, or
hanxiao@mail.airchina.com.cn /

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

First Title Beijing Real Estate Guaranty launches Web site

Santa Ana, Calif., and Beijing, (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - First Title (Beijing) Real Estate Guaranty Co., Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of The First American Corporation and the first entirely foreign-owned real estate guaranty company in China, today announced the launch of its official Web site, http://www.zhongyian.com.

The Web site is the first of its kind in China and is dedicated to providing real estate finance service information. It will also serve as a one-stop, self-service platform for end users by providing real estate purchasers and owners with the most up-to-date information on mortgage product options-the Chinese version of escrow and other services for residential and commercial property transactions.

In China, the need for real estate mortgage, refinance, collateral consumption loans, guaranty and escrow services are rapidly increasing. At the same time, banks are providing more loan products to satisfy those needs; however, regular customers lack sufficient information about options on fund supervision and settlement services, making it difficult to choose the right products.

"We want to integrate the real estate finance service chain in China. Our Web site, backed by a specialized service team and partnership with leading industry practitioners such as Kblcw.com, Moneyschool.msn.com.cn, Kooxoo.com and Pinggu.Soufun.com, provides loan product information to our clients in a timely manner," said Edward Ma, assistant vice president-information operation for First Title (Beijing) Real Estate Guaranty Co., Ltd. "By using the search, compare and apply functions on our Web site, our clients can fulfill most of their real estate financing needs in one location."

Moreover, the Web site provides an independent, neutral third-party escrow platform for its users. Due to the lack of specialized knowledge and adequate industry regulation, great financial risk has emerged in China's real estate financial service sector. "As one of the first government-certified escrow firms, we have the responsibility of utilizing technology to construct a safety framework for real estate transactions in China," said Gene Shi, managing director and president of First Title (Beijing) Real Estate Guaranty Co., Ltd. "More than 90 percent of property transactions in the United States involve First American's products and services.

We have combined the design philosophy and operational experience of the U.S. system with our Web site to integrate the real estate finance chain in China."

About First Title (Beijing) Real Estate Guaranty Co., Ltd.

First Title (Beijing) Real Estate Guaranty Co., Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of The First American Corporation, is a China-based real estate guaranty company that focuses primarily on real estate guaranty services, real estate guaranty-related transaction assurance and consulting services.
For more information visit http://www.zhongyian.com

About The First American Corporation

The First American Corporation (NYSE: FAF) is a FORTUNE 500(R) company that traces its history to 1889. With revenues of $8.5 billion in 2006, it is America's largest provider of business information. First American combines advanced analytics with its vast data resources to supply businesses and consumers with valuable information products to support the major economic events of people's lives, such as getting a job, renting an apartment, buying a car or house, securing a mortgage and opening or buying a business.

The First American Family of Companies, many of which command leading market share positions in their respective industries, operate within five primary business segments, including: Title Insurance and Services, Specialty Insurance, Mortgage Information, Property Information and First Advantage.

More information about the company and an archive of its press releases can be found at http://www.firstam.com.

Media Contact:

United States:
Carrie Gaska
Corporate Communications
The First American Corporation
(714) 250-3298
cgaska@firstam.com

China:
Gene Shi
First Title (Beijing) Real Estate Guaranty Co.
(86 10) 5908-5108
shijinqiang@zhongyian.com

Investor Contact:
Mark Seaton
Investor Relations
The First American Corporation
(714) 250-4264
mseaton@firstam.com

SOURCE The First American Corporation
CONTACT: media, United States, Carrie Gaska, Corporate Communications,
+1-714-250-3298,

cgaska@firstam.com,
investors, Mark Seaton, Investor Relations,
+1-714-250-4264,
mseaton@firstam.com, both of The First American Corporation; or
media, China, Gene Shi of First Title (Beijing) Real Estate Guaranty Co.,
(86 10) 5908-5108,
shijinqiang@zhongyian.com
Web site: http://www.firstam.com
http://www.zhongyian.com
(FAF)

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS