Chinese New Year was welcomed early by the traditional 48 Group Chinese New Year event. This year, for the first time, we were delighted to welcome CCCUK – the Chinese Chamber of Commerce – as the co-organiser.
VIPs at the pre-dinner reception
The Year of the Rooster Black Tie Dinner was opened at the Dorchester by Si Bingjun, Chairman of CCC, and Stephen Perry, Chairman of the 48 Group. A warm and personal letter from Vice premier Ma Kai was read out.
Ambassador Liu gave a superb speech about progress in China and in the bilateral relationship. This followed the 48 Group/KPMG UK-China Business Awards, introduced by David Sayer, Partner and Member of the Board at KPMG. The awards this year went to China National Nuclear group (CGN), for their investment in the UK nuclear industry. CGN Vice president Zheng Dongshan came from China to collect the award. For British Investment in China the award went to BP plc, for their investment into shale gas in China BP’s Chief Executive, Bob Dudley, came to accept the award.
China National Nuclear group Vice
president, Mr Zeng Dongshan, collecting the 48 Group Club/KPMG China Business Award
BP Chief Excutive Bob Dudley collecting the 48 Group/KPMG Business Award for British Investment in China
After dinner, former Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne delivered a fine speech about how he viewed the opportunities for the UK from the rise of China. He was followed onto the stage by Mr Jin Liqun, President of AIIB, who gave us an excellent insight into the Bank, and its workings.
The Rt Hon George Osborne MP giving his speech
Mr Jin Liqun, President of AIIB
The dinner was a fabulous occasion set against the backdrop of Brexit, Xi Jinping’s speech at Davos, and the inauguration of President Trump in the USA.
500 satisfied people made their way home and prepared to welcome in the Chinese New Year, each with their own rooster.
Thanks to our Lead Sponsors Huawei, Bank of China and KPMG, as well as Global, Cathay Pacific and Shangri La.
Chinese New Year Dinner 2017
For media coverage of the 48 Group Club Chinese New Year Dinner please see here