On 13 February 2024, Minister Wang Qi attended and addressed the 2024 Chinese New Year Reception hosted by Abrdn at invitation. Over 50 people were present at the event, including Sir Douglas Flint CBE, Chairman of Abrdn, Mr Stephen Bird, Chief Executive of Abrdn, and representatives from the Chinese and British business communities.

On behalf of Ambassador Zheng Zeguang, Minister Wang extended holiday greetings to the guests attending the event. Minister Wang noted that in 2023 China’s GDP grew by 5.2% year-on-year, with its contribution to global economic growth exceeding 30% for more than ten consecutive years. The long-term trajectory of China’s development remains positive. The year 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. It is also a critical year for advancing Chinese modernisation in all respects.

While staying committed to high-quality development and high-standard opening up, China vigorously calls for an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation. It is hoped that the business communities of China and the UK will work together to promote mutually beneficial cooperation and make more contributions to the steady development of China-UK relations.

Sir Douglas said that Abrdn, attaching great importance to the Chinese market, is ready to deepen cooperation with China, and contribute more to UK-China financial cooperation.