On Saturday, 19 October, BritCham Shanghai co-chaired a business roundtable with Foreign Secretary The Rt Hon David Lammy MP in Shanghai.
The roundtable provided an opportunity for the Foreign Secretary to hear the views of British businesses from across a diverse range of sectors, including finance, healthcare, consumer, automotive, education, and energy.
During the roundtable, the Foreign Secretary highlighted the new government’s approach to establishing stable and consistent engagement with China. The Foreign Secretary also reflected on the role British businesses will play in supporting the UK government’s economic growth mission and net zero ambitions.
On behalf of BritCham Shanghai and our members, Executive Director Stuart Dunn shared insights reflecting both the challenges and uncertainties, as well as the opportunities and benefits for companies operating in China, and for the UK economy in line with the new government’s growth and sustainability goals.
Stuart summarised: “Our members welcome the Foreign Secretary’s commitment to strengthening dialogue and cooperation with China, as well as the intent to return to consistency, respect, and a focus on long-term interests. We appreciate the commitment to enhancing exchanges at senior and other levels, and expanding cooperation in areas such as climate change, energy, environmental protection, and the economy. These initiatives will undoubtedly foster increased trade and investment for the UK economy and unlock greater opportunities for our member companies. We stongly support the Department for Business and Trade, and the new Government, in these endeavours and look forward to further collaboration.”
Following the roundtable with British business, the Foreign Secretary met with Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng before attending a reception at the Museum of Art Pudong organised by the British Council and British Consulate General Shanghai. Around 200 representatives from business, education, arts and culture attended the reception.
Foreign Secretary The Rt Hon David Lammy MP and Shanghai Mayor Gong Zheng
UK-China Arts, Education and Business Reception – Group Photo
UK-China Arts, Education and Business Reception – Foreign Secretary The Rt Hon David Lammy MP
UK-China Arts, Education and Business Reception – British Ambassador to China Dame Caroline Wilson DCMG
BritCham Shanghai members at UK-China Arts, Education and Business Reception
“The arrival of The Rt Hon David Lammy MP in Shanghai on Saturday marks a significant turning point for our business community. Re-engagement with China enables us to forge stronger relationships with our Chinese counterparts, unlocking opportunities for increased trade, employment and growth.”
— Kirsten Johnston, Chair, BritCham Shanghai
During the Foreign Secretary’s visit to Beijing on Friday, 18 October, he met with Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and IDCPC Minister Liu Jianchao.
