They are part of Skyteam. Yes, you will need to add a country code. I got a text with my PIN number, to complete my sign up. Not sure why it isn’t working quickly and easily for you. You can ring them..,it will cost you a toll call, but the menu gives you an English option and the operator spoke pretty good English (albeit a little quiet and fast). I rang 2 days ago in the afternoon Chinese time and was through to a person in under a minute.