His Excellency Sir Sebastian Wood, British Ambassador to China, recently delivered a terrific speech to Confucius Institute Scotland. This was a fascinating presentation that explored the Ambassador’s time in China and his views on the future for China and the UK. In the speech he outlined the opportunity for the UK and the role China needs to play in the world both economically and politically.
The Ambassador made clear the need for UK companies to embrace the opportunity. The figures, outside of direct trade and investment are staggering. Over 130,000 Chinese students are now in the UK and 490,000 tourists travelled to the UK last year. He also urged our young people to study or take up internships in China stating “Knowledge of China, and Chinese, is likely to be the best investment you ever make – an anchor for your career”.
The Ambassador is an old friend of Nottingham and mentioned the University’s Ningbo Campus in his speech. Prior to taking up his post he visited the East Midlands to talk about the increasing trade with China from our region. This year, to celebrate the 10 Year anniversary of the Ningbo Campus, he graciously hosted an engagement evening at his official Residence in Beijing and spoke warmly about the success in China.
Nottingham is lucky to have the Nottingham Confucius Institute (on whose Board I sit). Since 2007, nearly 10,000 students have undertaken Mandarin courses and these are open to local businesses who wish to improve their knowledge and understanding of China. The Institute is planning ambitious activity for 2015.