During the event, representatives from our diamond sponsors shared their wishes and reflections on reaching this key milestone for UK-China relations.

Jakob Stausholm, CEO, Rio Tinto

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Rio Tinto has strong and historic ties with both countries, we are a UK headquartered company and our largest shareholder is Chinese. We have been exporting into China for over 50 years, and successfully conducted joint-ventures for nearly 40 years.

Pascal Soriot, CEO, AstraZeneca

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With the talent and the focus on science and innovation that exists in both the UK and China, the opportunity for partnership and delivery of innovative medicines to patients around the world is greater than ever. We at AstraZeneca are looking forward to continue to grow our contribution towards healthcare in China.

 Simon Yang, bp Group SVP, bp China President

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As one of the earliest foreign-invested enterprises in China, bp had the privilege to be part of China’s reform and opening. We have immensely benefited from the development of China’s energy industry. We look forward to continuously contributing to the sustainability of the energy sector.

 Brian McNamara, CEO, Haleon

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Over the past half century we have great successes in both countries, including huge economic growth and people to people connections. Our products has helped millions of Chinese consumers for over 35 years, and we look forward to the many years of success and partnership.

Mark Wang, President & CEO, HSBC China

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Looking forward, we will continue to play our part in serving our customers and communities.  Together with China’s budding financial sector, and our unique role in connecting China and the world, we plan to further engage in broader international collaborations.

 Jolyon Bulley, CEO, IHG Greater China

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China's vast and promising market represents important opportunities for multinational enterprises, supported by the 50 years of mutually beneficial relations. At IHG, we remain very confident of the long-term outlook for our Greater China business.

Qing PAN, Member of the Board of Management, Jaguar Land Rover, President and CEO, Jaguar Land Rover China

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For the coming 50 years, we hope that we will continue to guide bilateral ties. We will also continue to contribute to people’s well-being by strengthening commercial ties between our great nations.

Sir Sebastian Wood, Chairman, China, Schroder Plc

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We have been excited to participate in the rapid development of China’s financial markets. With the support of our partners and the Chinese regulators, we are optimistic that we can contribute to a rise of common prosperity and cooperation.

Jerry Zhang, Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, China;Cluster Chief Executive Officer (China & Japan) Standard Chartered 

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We have witnessed the growth in economic and trade ties over the years between the UK and China. We look forward to making even more contributions in the many years to come by supporting clients in their in-bound and outbound strategies and working closely with Governments, industry peers, and organizations like CBBC.  

 Ivan Menezes, CEO, Diageo

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British business plays a vital role in helping to build bridges between our economies, societies, and cultures. At home, we continue to support China UK engagement and all these demonstrates our commitment to strengthen mutual relations and to continue the growth of our business in China. 

Next week, CBBC will hold a second dinner to mark the 50-year anniversary in Shanghai on Tuesday 28 March with around 200 guests expected to attend from across the British and Chinese Government and business community.