Sarah Mann opened the evening by extending a warm welcome to Sir Sherard and emphasising the vital role the China-Britain Business Council (CBBC) has played in fostering UK-China relations and promoting business opportunities between the two nations. She described CBBC as a cornerstone of the modern UK-China partnership, remarking, “As we look back CBBC’s long history this evening, I hope we can also look forward to what promises to be an enduring future.”

Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles reflected on CBBC’s 70-year history and highlighted the importance of strengthening ties between Guangdong and the UK. He reaffirmed CBBC will continue to further these partnerships and advancing collaboration through shared expertise, investment, and innovation.

Bai Mingshao noted: "Over the years, the CBBC has played a vital role as a bridge in promoting China-UK exchanges and cooperation. Looking to the future, our Guangdong Council for the Promotion of International Trade also anticipates continuing to work hand in hand with the CBBC, creating higher quality platforms for the business communities of both regions and fostering even closer cooperation.

Thanks to our reception sponsors

The year 2024 marks the 70th anniversary of the China-Britain Business Council (CBBC). Over the past year, CBBC has hosted celebratory events in cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Chongqing, and Guangzhou. These gatherings brought together business leaders and government representatives from both China and the UK to reflect on CBBC’s 70-year journey and to look forward to continued success in fostering friendship, cooperation, and trade prosperity between the two nations.