In 1954, Jack Perry, founder of the London Export Corporation, led a group of 48 British businessmen on a historic trade mission to Beijing, helping to establish one of the first modern-day trade links with China. These 48 businessmen were the forerunners of the 48 Group Club. The trip became known as the “Ice Breaking Mission” and the club members were dubbed “Ice Breakers”.
Chinese Ambassador to the UK Zheng Zeguang on Wednesday called for an “ice-breaking” spirit in China-UK relations. In his keynote speech at the annual ‘Icebreakers’ Chinese New Year Dinner, Zheng said: “In this new era of changes and upheavals, China-UK relations have become even more important for both countries and the whole world. And more than ever, we need to be inspired by the ‘icebreaker’ spirit.” Zheng also noted that there has been some progress in China-UK relations in recent months. “We need to build on this and keep the momentum going,” he said.
Zheng also called for the resumption of dialogue and cooperation in other areas, including new energy, Artificial Intelligence (AI), science-technology, trade, education and international and regional issues. “Most importantly, we must address bilateral relations in the spirit of mutual respect, non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit. There are differences and sensitive issues between us and they need to be properly addressed,” he said.
He added that in the New Year, the Year of the Snake, China will continue to show confidence and determination, stay on the course of high-quality development and push forward Chinese modernization.