Speech by H.E. Ambassador Liu Xiaoming at the Chinese New Year Reception for UK Education Partners: Lose No Time in Seizing Opportunities and Write a New Chapter of China-UK Educational Cooperation

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Dear Friends:

The fruitful outcomes of China-UK educational exchanges and cooperation in 2019 could not have been achieved without your strong support and relentless efforts. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all of you present tonight!

The year 2020 opens the third decade of the 21st century. In this year, China will achieve its first centenary goal, that is, to complete the building of a moderately prosperous society in all aspects. The UK will complete Brexit and begin a new journey of building a "Global Britain". Our two countries will also celebrate the fifth anniversary of the China-UK "Golden Era".

The new year holds enormous potential and broad prospects for China-UK relations, including our educational partnership.

Shakespeare said, "Make use of time, let not advantage slip."

A Chinese idiom also says, "Time waits for no man."

So, let's lose no time in seizing the opportunities and write a new chapter of China-UK educational cooperation. I am sure the educational community of our two countries will contribute more "golden fruits" to the China-UK "Golden Era"!

Now may I invite you to join me in a toast:

To the sound and steady growth of China-UK relations,

To a better future for China-UK educational exchanges and cooperation,

To a happy and healthy Year of the Rat for everyone present tonight,

Cheers!