Despite all the differences between us, despite all the ups and downs, China-U.S. cooperation has been deepening and broadening, bringing real benefits to the people of the both countries, said Cui Tiankai, Chinese Ambassador to the United States, on January 17 in New York City.

Cui made this remark in his speech at the Chinese Lunar New Year of the Dog Gala hosted by the China General Chamber of Commerce – USA (CGCC), the largest nonprofit organization representing Chinese enterprises in the United States.

"Recently, I have noticed some voices of doubt about the wisdom of building this relationship, even attempts to question the value of people-to-people exchanges, even trying to raise political obstacles to culture exchange between our two countries," he said.

"Let me say this, nothing is more silly than questioning one's own success; nothing is more silly and harmful than denying the huge potential and great prospects of building a strong and mutually beneficial relationship between China and the United States," Cui said.

Tung Chee-Hwa, Honorary Chairman of CGCC and Vice-Chairman of the 12th CPPCC National Committee also delivered a keynote speech at the gala. Tung pointed out that the China-U.S. relationship is no longer based on economic cooperation only, people-to-people exchanges have been playing a more and more important role in promoting the relationship between the two countries and we need to facilitate more people-to-people activities moving forward. Tung believes that China and the United States "have every reason to work together".

This annual Gala brought together over 450 business leaders, government officials, and researchers from China and the U.S. in support of CGCC's growth, its expanding partnerships, and the even more prosperous China –U.S. business relationship.

Stephen Schwarzman was honored with the "Goodwill Ambassador for China-U.S. Exchange" Award, presented by Tung Chee-Hwa, for his remarkable and impactful contributions to a constructive and cooperative China-U.S. relationship. In receiving his award, Schwarzman said that the China-U.S. relationship will define the 21st century. Holding such a belief, he established the Schwarzman College in Tsinghua University in Beijing to give future leaders the power to change the course of history and to build a peaceful and prosperous world.

Founded in 2005, CGCC's mission is to promote Chinese investment in the United States and to enhance cooperation between the Chinese and U.S. business communities. Today, CGCC's membership consists of more than 1,500 companies, including both Chinese and non-Chinese companies. Fifty five of CGCC's members are ranked in the 2017 Fortune Global 500. In 2016, CGCC Chinese member companies invested approximately $50 billion in various industries in the United States. At the end of 2016, CGCC Chinese member companies employed over 200,000 people throughout the United States.

(Reporting from New York City)

Copyedited by Chris Surtees

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