On October 15, the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations held its 2024 Annual Awards Dinner in New York, where both Chinese and American leaders sent congratulatory messages. Chinese Ambassador to the United States, Xie Feng, read a message from Chinese President Xi Jinping, emphasizing that fostering stable, positive, and forward-moving U.S.-China relations is the responsible choice.
During his remarks, Xie shared that President Xi’s letter reflects a sincere desire to value and enhance U.S.-China relations and mutual achievements. He highlighted a firm commitment to expand openness and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, calling for increased dialogue and the sharing of opportunities from China.
Xie noted that over the 45 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, U.S.-China relations have withstood challenges, benefiting both nations and promoting peace and stability worldwide. As we stand at a new historical starting point, it is vital to pursue a responsible and correct path for the U.S.-China relationship that honors history and serves the people and the global community.
To maintain stability in U.S.-China relations, Xie emphasized the need for visionary leadership that recognizes the realities of globalization. He urged both nations to abandon narrow-minded calculations and to acknowledge that neither side can do without the other. He called for a path based on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation. Addressing Taiwan, he asserted it as sacred Chinese territory, stating that “Taiwan independence” is incompatible with peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. He insisted that real preservation of peace requires adherence to the One China principle and the three Sino-U.S. joint communiqués, firmly opposing “Taiwan independence.”
Xie also expressed that improving U.S.-China relations requires unwavering confidence in cooperation and mutual benefit. Under the leadership of Mr. Ford, the Atlantic Pacific Investment Group has been rooted in the Chinese market for 24 years, successfully viewing China as its primary investment destination, and today’s recognition is well-deserved. In the previous year, 1,920 new American companies were established in China, with 80% planning to reinvest their profits this year. This shows that companies are choosing to invest in China rather than pull back, with their concerns centered not on a “second Chinese shock” but on the fear of missing out on opportunities in China.
Looking to the future, he noted that to advance U.S.-China relations, there must be courage to tackle challenges. Established in 1966 during a time of isolation and hostility, the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations has helped facilitate the “Ping-Pong Diplomacy,” creating bridges for friendship and practical cooperation over the past half-century. He expressed hope for more investors committed to friendly collaboration rather than opportunists looking to exploit U.S.-China relations. He called for a collective voice against decoupling, Cold War mentality, and confrontation, and for support of exchange, cooperation, and friendship to realize the “San Francisco vision” and build a bright future for U.S.-China relations.
The dinner was attended by approximately 400 guests, including National Committee Executive Vice Chairman Greenberg, President Orlins, and William Ford, Chairman and CEO of the Atlantic Pacific Investment Group, who received an award from the committee that evening.
About the author