NEW YORK, NY – On Wednesday, January 18, 2023, China General Chamber of Commerce – USA (CGCC) and CGCC Foundation, the largest and most impactful non-profit, non-governmental, non-partisan organization representing Chinese investments in the United States, hosted the 2023 Lunar New Year of the Rabbit Gala at Cipriani 42nd St in Manhattan. With the Gala theme of “Reflection and Appreciation, Respect and Resilience” close to heart, the gala gathered about 400 of the uppermost business leaders, government officials, and representatives from the U.S. and Chinese business communities to celebrate influential American and Chinese business leaders and companies in recognition of their cross-border cooperation and contributions to local communities.
Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York State, introduced by Marc Holliday, Chairman and CEO of SL Green Realty Corp, delivered special remarks during the event. As the first female governor of the State and an exceptional supporter of an inclusive business community, she praised the significance of business cooperation and re-emphasized her commitment to creating a safer, more equal and inclusive business environment.
Governor Hochul presented an official “Lunar New Year” proclamation to Wei HU, Chairman of CGCC, President and CEO of Bank of China U.S.A., in recognition of the Chamber’s longstanding contributions to this vision.
In the opening remarks, Chairman Wei HU reflected on the achievements of CGCC-USA through the years and highlighted its integral role in the growth and development of U.S.-China relations. He showed gratitude to the committed sponsors and supporters, including the 2023 Gala key sponsors, Co-Chairs, CGCC Board of Directors, and Committee members who have made tremendous contributions to the Chamber. He praised the importance of healthy U.S.-China relations in global development and called for candid conversations among businesses and joint efforts in building a friendly and open-minded community.
Xueyuan XU, Chargé d’Affaires, Deputy Chief of Mission and Minister, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, delivered a keynote speech at the event. She said the theme of “Respect” and “Resilience” was exactly what is needed to tide over the current difficulties in China-US economic and trade relations. At present, more than ever, enterprises in China and the United States need to carry forward the entrepreneurial spirit of never giving up, “rising to difficulties and forging ahead”, and winning a reputation and market with quality services and professional operation.
This year, CGCC honored Dr. Henry A. Kissinger with the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding achievements as a pioneer and lifelong contributor to U.S.-China relations. In his acceptance speech, Dr. Kissinger spoke about the history of U.S.-China relations and praised the active role of organizations, like CGCC, in promoting joint development between the two countries. He also reminded us of the significance of cooperation between two responsible powers for the harmonious, secure, and stable development of all humanity. Raj Subramaniam, President & CEO of FedEx, introduced this award, paid tribute to Dr. Kissinger, and extended heartfelt congratulations.
SCG America Inc.(SCGA) was presented with the Outstanding Community Contribution Award in recognition of its long-term and impactful contributions to the prosperity of the local community.
In the Appreciation Remarks, Ning YUAN, Vice-Chair of CGCC, Chairman & President of China Construction America recalled the history of CGCC’s Annual Gala, which first took place in 2011 to applaud the business community’s resilience and growth during difficult times. He emphasized this year’s theme by introducing a group of long-time friends of CGCC-USA, including Tiankai CUI, Former Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the United States of America; CHO Tak Wong, Chairman of the board of directors of Fuyao Group; Ray Dalio, Founder, Co-Chairman, and Co-Chief Investment Officer of Bridgewater Associates; Maurice R. Greenberg, Chairman and CEO of C.V. Starr & Co. Inc., Marc Allen, Chief Strategy Officer and senior vice president of Strategy and Corporate Development at The Boeing Company; Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor of the New York (2002-2013) and David Beckham.
During a special recognition presentation, Max Baucus, the United States Ambassador to China (2014-2017) shared fond memories of his time in China and expressed his encouragement for the American community to further understand China. Jim Reynolds Jr., Chairman and CEO of Loop Capital showed his gratitude towards Chinese investments in their contribution to the development of the city of Chicago and highlighted the strong consensus of exchange and cooperation between the two sides.
Eric Adams, Mayor of New York City delivered virtual closing remarks, a hopeful message about the recovery of New York City and the world’s business communities, and wishing all peace and prosperity in the Year of the Rabbit.
The Mayor’s closing remarks were introduced by Jeff T. Blau, CEO of Related Companies.
The gala was opened by Hip-Hop Artist and Filmmaker Jordan Coleman and emceed by Mike Walter, Principal Anchor of CGTN-America, a five-time Emmy Award winner.
Watch the Full Program:https://www.facebook.com/cgtnamerica/videos/1363379177813461
Special Thanks: Bank of China U.S.A., Ernst & Young LLP, Shineharmony Holdings, Inc, China Construction America, Las Vegas Sands, SCG America Group Inc., SL Green Realty Group Inc., China Mobile International, China Unicom Americas, Fuyao Glass American Inc.， The Starr Foundation, Starr Insurance Companies, HNA Trust Management, J.P.Morgan, State Grid US Representative Office, Vornado Realty Trust, ICBC US Region Management Committee, Citigroup, Inc., FedEx, Related Companies, Chubb, Loop Capital, Dorsey & Whitney, Surge Energy America, CICC US Securities,Inc.,China Merchants Bank New York Branch, The Waitex Group of Companies, International Vitamin Corporation, Gemdale USA Corporation, Delta Air Lines, Inc.,China Construction Bank New York Branch, CSX,Inc., King & Wood Mallesons, Viasat, Pfizer, Inc. Agricultural Bank of China New York Branch, Hylant, Broad U.S.A.,Inc, Boeing International, Eccom Network （USA),Inc.,Tiffany, Hongdou New York Inc.,EP Yaying, Tea Drunk, BYD Motors Inc., Jersey City Medical Center/RWJ Barnabas Health,Lao Feng Xiang Jewelry USA LLC, Brooklyn Nets, Morgan Stanley, Greenland USA, China Orient Asset Management, Bank of Communications New York Branch, iGasUSA, Inc.
Media Contact: Sherry Yuan Qu, 646-928-5122, yuan.qu@cgccusa.org
About CGCC
Founded in 2005, China General Chamber of Commerce – USA (“CGCC”) has been recognized as the largest and most impactful non-profit organization representing Chinese enterprises in the U.S. With a mission to create value, generate economic growth, and enhance cooperation between the U.S. and Chinese business communities, CGCC offers a broad range of programs, services, and resources to over a thousand multinational members across the U.S.
About CGCC Foundation
Established in 2014, CGCC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. The mission of CGCC Foundation is to deepen mutual understanding and cooperation between the United States and China through research, public charity and engagement in economic, cultural and social exchanges.