GlobeCast Australia and China’s public broadcaster, CCTV, have announced an agreement under which GlobeCast will deliver CCTV News in English to Australian audiences.

The channel premieres in Australia on 22 July on Austar Channel 653.

CCTV describes the news and documentaries channel as “your link to Asia”. It is produced in Beijing and already broadcasting to about 100 million people in 124 countries.

A CCTV spokesperson said: “With a special focus on China, the channel also emphasizes events taking place in Asia and all developing countries. It provides international audiences with a window into understanding China and the world at large.”

GlobeCast Australia direct-to-home (DTH) Director Mark Lobwein said: “CCTV becomes one of more than 130 channels that GlobeCast Australia delivers. To have this special China service as part of our offering is something we are proud of. This is a culmination of ongoing discussions and future co-operation.”

AUSTAR’s Chief Executive Officer John Porter said: “We believe in giving regional Australians access to the best possible range of news and information services.”