(English translation, for reference only)
Senior Minister of State for Finance and Transport, Mrs Josephine Teo
Vice-President (International Affairs), Nanyang Technological University, Professor Er Meng Hwa
Business China Board of Directors, Lecturers
Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen
A very good evening!
1. Firstly, on behalf of Business China, I would like to thank Senior Minister of State Josephine Teo for taking time off to attend the Future China Advanced Leaders Programme 2014 Welcome Dinner.
2. This year marked the third edition of the Future China Advanced Leaders Programme. Once again, we are co-organising with Nanyang Business School to present this prestigious business management programme, for local and multi-national companies, government bodies and statutory boards’ top management who are in-charge of China affairs, to provide them with a comprehensive eclectic course of solid content, in-depth theories and first-hand experiences in this China learning journey.
3. Future China Advanced Leaders Programme, not only consists of economic and business elements, it also covers social, political and cultural topics, so as to provide participants with a more comprehensive view of China. It is hoped that through this course that spans over three months in three different segments, participants will not only be able to further fathom the unique business etiquettes in China, they could also expand their business network to include like-minded friends and mentors.
4. China had just concluded the second annual session of the 12th National People’s Congress. Implementation of the reforms is being carried out in full force by the new leadership. The Chinese society at all levels is currently experiencing unprecedented change. It is indeed a timely programme that will not only clarify participants’ queries and doubts about China, the latest information will also be provided.
5. Highlights this year will include the trip to China in the April segment. We are honoured to have Senior Minister of State for Trade, Industry and National Development, Mr Lee Yi Shyan lead the delegation to Shanghai, Chongqing and Chengdu for an extraordinary journey along the Yangtze River. The trip will focus on the diverse development opportunities in China’s western region and further exploration of its unique geo-cultural and business landscape.
6. This year, the 24 participants came from a diverse array of professional fields. I believe the dynamics will spark interesting interactions, which will in turn deepen and broaden the scope of learning, resulting in a more rewarding learning journey.
7. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Business China Board Advisers and Directors for taking time off to attend this programme and share their personal experiences and insights. I would also like to thank International Enterprise Singapore for their unwavering support in making the FC-ALP possible once again.
8. Lastly, I hope all participants would keep up their learning spirit and engage in active course participation. May all of you benefit greatly from this programme!
9. Thank you!