Chinese and British business and trade communities are commemorating the 70th anniversary of the groundbreaking “Icebreaking Mission” that revolutionized trade between China and the UK in the 1950s. The event, held in Beijing and co-hosted by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), Britain’s 48 Group Club, and the China-Britain Business Council, marks the significant efforts and achievements that have greatly enhanced bilateral economic cooperation.
Chinese President Xi Jinping conveyed his congratulations through a letter to the commemorative event, as reported by the Xinhua News Agency. President Xi expressed his hope that visionaries from both China and Britain would uphold the spirit of openness and cooperation, work together to explore new avenues for mutually beneficial collaboration, promote the advancement of an open global economy, and contribute to strengthening China-UK friendship and cooperation.
During the event, CCPIT Chairman Ren Hongbin highlighted the historical significance of the “Icebreaking Mission.” He emphasized that 70 years ago, the CCPIT, in collaboration with British business leaders, successfully broke through the economic blockade imposed by Western nations on the People’s Republic of China. Their joint efforts laid the foundation for China-UK trade and left an enduring legacy of the “icebreaking spirit” for future generations.
Stephen Perry, Chairman of the 48 Group Club, reaffirmed their commitment as “icebreakers” to furthering trade between Britain and China. Perry’s father, Jack Perry, was a representative of the original “Icebreaking Mission.” Perry expressed his dedication to supporting the development of China-UK trade, citing the complementary nature of their economies, advanced financial industry, technology, and education system.
Gordon Orr, Vice Chairman of the China-Britain Business Council, emphasized that trade and investment serve as the cornerstone of the China-UK relationship. He highlighted the immense potential for collaboration in various sectors, ranging from education and cultural exchanges to research partnerships aimed at addressing global challenges.
Keith Bennett, Vice Chairman of the 48 Group Club, emphasized the mutual benefits of technical, scientific, and research and development (R&D) collaborations, as well as educational ties. He noted that China’s advancements in R&D, innovation, artificial intelligence, and big data, coupled with Britain’s expertise, present opportunities for robust cooperation.
Efforts to strengthen economic and trade ties between China and the UK have yielded fruitful results. The UK has been designated the country of honor for the 2023 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS), scheduled to be held in Beijing in September. The UK’s participation in CIFTIS is expected to expand significantly, showcasing products and services from top-tier British enterprises across multiple sectors. Senior officials will actively engage to promote meaningful exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.
Despite the growing trade and investment between China and the UK, challenges persist. In November 2022, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak declared that the “golden era” of relations with China had come to an end. Analysts note that amidst the current strained China-UK relations, it is crucial for the British side to demonstrate sincerity and avoid blindly following the lead of the US.
Experts argue that in today’s interconnected world, economic and trade development is inseparable from China. They emphasize that deepening trade relations between China and the UK would be mutually beneficial for both countries. Li Yong, Deputy Chair of the expert committee of the China Association of International Trade, emphasized that long-standing trade relationships and normal business cooperation align with the fundamental interests of enterprises, urging politicians to prioritize economic realities over political interests.