Business leaders in the United Kingdom (UK) have expressed their readiness to deepen cooperation with China, recognizing the increasing importance of the country to a post-Brexit UK. This commitment was reiterated during the Icebreakers 2024 Chinese New Year celebration, jointly hosted by the 48 Group Club, the China Chamber of Commerce in the UK (CCCUK), and the China-Britain Business Council (CBBC).
The 48 Group Club, founded by Jack Perry in 1954, played a significant role in establishing modern-day trade links with China. Their historic trade mission to Beijing broke Western embargoes on the newly-founded People’s Republic of China. The members of the club, known as Icebreakers, were pioneers in fostering trade relations between the two nations.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang conveyed his congratulatory message to the event, emphasizing the mutual benefits and positive impact of closer cooperation between China and the UK. He expressed his hope that both countries would continue to strengthen their bond for higher-level cooperation.
Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles, chair of the CBBC, highlighted the growing importance of China to the UK, particularly in a post-Brexit scenario. He recognized the dependence of British businesses on the vast Chinese market, stating that renowned British brands, ranging from Range Rovers to pharmaceuticals and financial services, are favored by Chinese consumers.
Stephen Perry, president emeritus of the 48 Group Club, emphasized the rapid progress of China and the futility of strategies aimed at stopping its advancement. He stressed that engagement and cooperation have historically been the right choice in UK-China relations.
Dominic Barton, Chair of Rio Tinto, echoed the sentiments of the business community, praising China not only as an essential market but also as a source of innovation, talent, and partnership for companies operating globally.
The commitment of UK business leaders to strengthen cooperation with China reflects the recognition of the country’s growing significance and the opportunities it presents for British companies. The post-Brexit era calls for a renewed focus on nurturing trade relations between the two nations, with British businesses acknowledging China’s role as a vital market and a source of innovation and partnership.
The commitment made at the Icebreakers 2024 Chinese New Year celebration marks a positive step towards solidifying UK-China cooperation and fostering a mutually beneficial relationship. With both countries acknowledging the importance of engagement and active collaboration, this presents opportunities for enhanced trade and prosperity, contributing to global peace and economic growth.
Overall, the UK business community’s willingness to deepen cooperation with China demonstrates their strategic approach to securing mutually beneficial ties in a post-Brexit landscape. By embracing opportunities for collaboration and trade, British companies are poised to navigate the changing global landscape and foster prosperity for both nations.
