Shanghai overseas returned alumni honor British philanthropist's cross-cultural legacy

Zou affirmed that the association remains dedicated to inheriting the "spirit of breaking the ice" by continually deepening cultural exchange between China and the UK. "We cherish these friendly ties. We hope that Chinese and British people will dedicate their wisdom to enhancing mutual trust, empathy, and win-win cooperation between our nations."

Cat Sinclair-Jones, director of the British Council in East China, considered Lester's architectural legacy as a symbol of the friendship between Shanghai and the British people. "Through more engagement and ever-deeper human connections, we can bring greater trust, creativity, and positive change to the world."

Stuart Dunn, executive director of the British Chamber of Commerce Shanghai, hailed the event as "a vital opportunity for recollection, sharing and contemplation of our intertwined histories and destinies". Cultural diversity, he affirmed, possesses unparalleled power to break down barriers.