Joining Sir Sherard at the meeting was Andrew Seaton, Chief Executive, China-Britain Business Council, Tom Simpson, Managing Director, China, China-Britain Business Council, and six senior representatives from British companies including Clifford Chance, Diageo, GSK, Haleon, IHG, and Jaguar Land Rover.

During the meeting, Chen Jining reflected on the role the China-Britain Business Council plays as a bridge between the UK and China to support economic development between both countries. Chen also shared Shanghai’s development plans including priorities for optimizing the city’s business environment and stressed the key role of foreign business.

"CBBC continues to support economic exchange between the UK and China and provide a stable platform for engagement between our members and Shanghai. Shanghai remains a major focal point for British investment in China. We look forward to following up on today’s exchange over the coming months and working together with the Shanghai municipal government to resume engagement both here in China and in the UK."

- Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles, Chair, China-Britain Business Council

The meeting took place as part of CBBC Chair Sir Sherard’s visit to China and provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on topics including British investment in Shanghai, the 6th CIIE, and the ways to support further economic cooperation between the UK and China.