Celebrate Europe Day with Consuls General and Business Leaders
The European Chamber Shanghai Chapter has invited EU Member States’ Consuls General in Shanghai and Shanghai Chapter board members to share their thoughts on this occasion.
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Voices from the Diplomatic Community
Please note that the list is in alphabetical order starting from France, that holds the presidency of the Council of the EU.
France
Mr Benoît Guidée
Consul General of France in Shanghai
"This year Europe’s Day has a particular resonance for European citizens in Shanghai. We have been under lockdown for more than a month, with significant challenges in our daily lives, and important economic ramifications. But we know, as Europeans, how to overcome challenges, as we have repeatedly demonstrated in the past few years. Facing the COVID outbreak, we took unprecedented actions to preserve lives while acting together to shield the economy from recession. We did it together as democracies, and we did by sticking to humanist values and science-based decisions. In the recent months, our continent has again shown remarkable unity in supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, from the onset of the crisis. We are more united than ever and we are willing to work with our global partners, including China, to build a world of peace and sustainable development. Building bridges with China is one of the key missions of EUCC, you can count on the support of the French Presidency of the European Union."
Belgium
Mr Bruno Jans
Consul General of the Kingdom of Belgium in Shanghai
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"The Consulate General of the Kingdom of Belgium in Shanghai is honored to celebrate Europe Day. We, Belgians, carry the European Union and its core principles firmly in our hearts and treasure it as our destiny. As a founding member of the EU, the privileged host nation of its main institutions in its capital Brussels and a multilingual country with an open economy, Belgium is a case in point on how the idea of ‘Europe’ has translated into decades of stability, integration and prosperity.
Thanks to the EU, we have successfully tackled cross-border challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. We, Europeans, remain more united than ever, in a Union of values in the face of Russian aggression against Ukraine, in our unshakable support of multilateralism as well as in our belief in mutual and balanced cooperation with world actors like China.
Belgium is proud to be an active contributor to the foremost global trading bloc, a hub of knowledge, innovation and high-end technology, and a staunch defender of fundamental rights, democracy and sustainable development."
Bulgaria
Mr Vladislav Spasov
Consul General of Bulgaria in Shanghai
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"The European Union is an aspiring project built on our shared values of human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law and human rights. On Europe Day held on May 9th, EU citizens all over the world celebrate these values - they unite us and pave the road of our shared future. We strive for peace, security and sustainable development of our planet Earth, solidarity and mutual respect among peoples, free and fair trade, eradication of poverty and protection of human rights under strict observance of international law. Our Consulate General is the only one that Bulgaria has in Asia and we are proud to work in Shanghai for the development of EU-China comprehensive strategic partnership. With hope that this particularly difficult time of lockdown in the metropolis will soon be over, I am sending a message of support, courage and optimism to everyone in Shanghai. Happy Europe Day!"
Czech Republic
Mr Karel Šrol
Consul General of the Czech Republic in Shanghai
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"Happy Europe Day to all,
Today, on May 9th we celebrate the Europe Day, which marks the anniversary of Robert Schuman’s Declaration, which started the unique project of European integration. We are proud of this achievement, which allowed us to create a united Europe which became an area of economic prosperity, integration and shared values.
The Covid-19 pandemic and recent war in Ukraine has re-invigorated the need for coordination and cooperation in Europe and further showcased the strength of European unity and solidarity.
Similar to the quickly growing cooperation within, the European Union has been steadily deepening cooperation with international partners. The economic relationship between the EU and China has developed extraordinarily fast and today we form one of the largest economic relationships in the world. We believe that we will continue this positive trend, address existing challenges and create new opportunities through open, forward-looking exchanges and cooperation."
Denmark
Mr Jakob Linulf
Consul General of Royal Danish in Shanghai
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"Happy Europe Day,
this year, Europe Day is particularly special to Denmark as we celebrate our 50th anniversary in the European Union. In 1972
The European Union is an essential part of the answer to many challenges today and in the future. Together, the members of the EU are leading the way in climate action and the green transition. The EU also plays a key role in addressing complex new challenges relating to EU security and cohesion, including migration, protection of the external borders, and handling new security threats such as COVID-19 and hybrid attacks.
Despite different cultural backgrounds and views here in Shanghai we have a strong collaboration between the European missions and chambers to promote green solutions, enhance trade and business opportunities and share our unique cultures.
The Royal Danish Consulate General is looking forward to continue our good collaboration with our fellow EU member states and the European Chamber of Commerce."
Finland
Mr Pasi Hellman
Consul General of Finland in Shanghai
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"The Europe Day highlights the importance of the European Union, celebrating the unity, peace and collaboration between European countries. EU contributes to a brighter future, where our common foreign policy promotes security, stability and human rights. We act towards a brighter future together, and Finland too, continues to be a committed and active member of the EU to defend and spread European values and interests worldwide.
The EU’s power is reflected through the shared values and the partnerships built. Europe’s voice is strong, and can be strengthened around the world. We are committed and eager to continue and advance the respectful bilateral dialogue of EU-China relations in the future, in the goal of promoting mutual understanding and cooperation in the areas of shared interests and beyond.
Challenges can be turned into opportunities if we face them together. Unity gives us strength and as united, we are stronger.
Happy Europe Day!"
Germany
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Mr Pit Heltmann
Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Shanghai
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"Europe Day is a day to cherish the gift of European unity and to celebrate our diversity. Since its inception with the Schuman Declaration in 1950, the EU has been the underpinning of peace and prosperity on a continent that far too long has been plagued by wars and misery.
Today, the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine challenges these achievements. As Europeans, we stand in solidarity side by side with the Ukrainians in their fight for freedom.
Europe’s diversity and the dynamism in the Yangtze River Delta have been at the root of the strong ties that we have built in business, trade, science and culture over the past decades. I hope that the current lockdown situation can be overcome soon and that our relationship can flourish again, to the mutual benefit of our Chinese hosts and of the Europeans."
Greece
Mr Vasileios Koniakos
Consul General of Greece in Shanghai
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"Every year, the Europe Day, in May 9, celebrates peace and unity in Europe. Marking the anniversary of “Schuman Declaration” that set out the concept for a new form of cooperation in Europe, Europe Day prompts us to reflect on the achievements of this remarkable course, to reinvigorate the support to our common values and to strengthen our unity.
Greece became the 10th member of the European Union in 1981. Since then, our country has spared no effort to develop and modernize its Economy and society within the democratic political system and the institutions of the EU, to actively participate in the process of the European integration and to consolidate stability and progress, both in national and regional terms.
On the occasion of Europe Day, we wish to participate in the celebration and to reiterate our strong support to the values of peace, unity, diversity in Europe."
Ireland
Ms Wendy Dorman-Smith
Consul General of
Ireland in Shanghai
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"The Consulate General of Ireland in Shanghai is pleased to join with our EU colleagues in Shanghai to mark Europe Day. As we celebrate the shared past and future of our member states, we also note the important partnership between the EU and China, and look forward to continued cooperation.
This year, Europe Day holds a special relevance for us as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of Ireland’s decision by referendum to join the then EEC in 1972.
The overall theme for EU50, our 50th anniversary programme, is “peace, progress, prosperity”. This theme was chosen because it recognises the contribution the EU has made in the evolution of Ireland today, the contribution Ireland has made in building the EU and our wish to be at the centre of a strong and shared European future, and the particular impact EU membership has had on fostering peace on the island of Ireland.
Indeed, in the face of unjustified Russian aggression against Ukraine, Europe Day 2022 represents an important opportunity for the EU partners to emphasise our shared values and commitment to peace, as well as our solidarity with the people of Ukraine.
In a moment of ever greater urgency for our future, we reaffirm these mutual values that bring us together."
Italy
Ms Tiziana D’Angelo
Consul General of Italy in Shanghai
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“The history of the EU integration is one of peace, democracy, solidarity and freedom, but also of prosperity, equality and sustainability. At this critical conjuncture in history, it is certainly worthwhile to remember the principles uniting us as Europeans, and the shared successes we have enjoyed together. Our unity and solidarity proved to be even stronger during difficult times. Faced with the unprecedented threat of COVID-19, the EU and its member countries worked together to support healthcare systems and to foster the economic recovery ahead while ensuring social protection for vulnerable people. Again, the shared interests of our countries and our citizens could only be served by standing and acting together. The voice of the EU as a global actor is even more important today to address the challenges of our times both in promoting peace and security and in working with our global partners towards more sustainable, efficient and climate neutral economic development.”
Luxembourg
Mr Vincent Hieff
Consul General of Luxembourg in Shanghai
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"As a proud founding member of the European Union, Luxembourg exemplifies the European motto of “United in Diversity” with more than 47% of our population being non-Luxembourgers originating from more than 170 different countries. Especially with the war currently raging on Europe’s doorstep in the Ukraine, Europe, as it has so often throughout its history, is showing unity and solidarity by standing with the people of the Ukraine and by welcoming refugees from this armed conflict. The outburst of solidarity and compassion in Europe’s civil society has been nothing short of remarkable, families across Europe are taking Ukrainian families into their homes and are sending help packages to the Ukraine.
Covid-19 has been challenging for all of us but it has also brought us closer together. It also highlighted the special bond between China and Europe. At the very beginning, Europe strongly supported all the efforts in Wuhan to contain the virus. In return, once the pandemic spread across Europe, China assisted Europe with the expertise it had gained in Wuhan and with medical supplies. Hand in hand against Covid-19.
On this “virtual” Europe Day, as the current lockdown situation in Shanghai makes it impossible to meet in person as usual, I would like to circle back to the beginning of my short message and the motto of the European Union: “United in Diversity”. The diversity in people, religions and cultures makes Europe a unique place to live and a unique business partner for China."
Malta
Mr Bernard Hamilton
Consul General of the Republic of Malta in Shanghai
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"Today, 9th May, we celebrate Europe Day. This marks the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration. On this day in 1950, Robert Schuman, French Foreign Minister, set out his idea for a new form of political cooperation in Europe.
The European Union protects its citizens and their freedoms; is developing a strong and vibrant economic base; building a climate neutral, fair and social economy; and protecting European interests and values on a global stage.
More than ever, we should be "United in diversity".
“Our Union is both beautifully unique and uniquely beautiful. It is a Union where we strengthen our individual liberty through the strength of our community. A Union shaped as much by our shared history and values as by our different cultures and perspectives. A Union with a soul" (Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission 2021)"
Netherlands
Mrs Marjo Crompvoets
Consul General of Netherlands in Shanghai
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"Europe Day marks the anniversary of the signing of the Schuman Declaration on 9 May 1950, which was a testament to the ability of the European people to overcome hardship. I hope that this year’s celebration also gives us the strength and encouragement to deal with the very difficult situation that we currently face, as European citizens in Shanghai in the middle of a long and challenging lockdown.
Furthermore, the Schuman Declaration aimed to secure long-term peace and share economic prosperity in Europe. Today, this still holds true and there is clear evidence that peace should never be taken for granted, as we stand together to show our unity and solidarity with Ukraine.
The Netherlands is committed to promoting common values, trade and investment and people to people exchanges. We are proud to contribute to the EU-China relations, which has its challenges but also its opportunities.
This year the Netherlands and China celebrate 50 years diplomatic relations at ambassadorial level, where cooperation on a number of areas are highlighted.
I wish for all of you that peace, progress and good health come to your way. Happy Europe Day!"
Poland
Mr Marek Ciesielczuk
Consul General of the Republic of Poland in Shanghai
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"Dear Friends,
Europe Day is a day during which we used to celebrate "peace and unity in Europe". The vital role in reaching peace, stability and prosperity was achieved thanks to the European Union which is a unique economic and political block consisting of 27 European countries. What was started many years ago as an economic union consolidating several European countries has evolved into a huge single market which enables people, goods, services and money to move freely.
Treaty on European Union stipulates that “the Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. These values are common to the Member States in a society which pluralism, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail”. Let me express our hope that these values should not only be an integral part of the European way of life, as they are, but they should be respected to the fullest by the whole world."
Portugal
Mr Israel Saraiva
Consul General of Portugal in Shanghai
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“The European Union is the most ambitious and successful project of economic and political integration in the history of international relations. Born from the ashes of World War II, it has established and strengthened over the years a community of peace, freedom, democracy and prosperity among its Member States. The European project has always been a strategic priority of Portugal’s foreign policy.
With a population of around 500 million people, the European Union is a driving force of the world's economy and trade. As a global player, the EU is engaged in promoting a world order based on rules, as well as upholding sustainable development and the respect of human rights.
A long-lasting relationship spanned for almost five decades, the Europe Union and China shall strive for a constructive, mutually beneficial partnership, promote a strong and fair-trade agenda and foster an effective multilateralism with the United Nations at its core.”
Romania
Mr Ioan Gheorghe Crisan
Acting Consul General of Romania in Shanghai
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“Today, ten years after the European Union has been awarded with the Nobel Peace Prize, war is looming out again in Europe. And today, more than ever in the 72 years of the European project, preserving peace on the European continent has become crucial. In the face of the unprovoked ongoing Russian’s invasion of the sovereign Ukraine, the solidarity and unity enshrined in the Schuman Declaration represent the core of our common reaction against this aggressor, while our shared values of human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law and human rights remain our main tools to promote peace and stability.
In these uncertain times, we are once again convinced that the 27 Member States, with their own priorities and realities, United in Diversity, can bring together, within EU, “creative efforts proportionate to the dangers which threaten it”, as Schuman stated on the 9th of May, 1950.
A strong, resilient, united and cohesive Europe is essential not only for its Member States and the European citizens, but also for the regional and global prosperity and stability. Likewise, the EU-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership should actively contribute to the world peace, tranquility and prosperity.
Particularly in these difficult times in Shanghai, the Consulate General of Romania conveys its warmest greetings to all the European citizens, from China and abroad."
Slovak Republic
Ms Ivana Vala Magatova
Consul General of the Slovak Republic in Shanghai
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"Slovakia has been a part of the European Union for 18 years.
On May 1, 2022, Slovakia celebrated the 18th anniversary of its accession to the European Union. We consider the free movement of persons, goods and services, peace between Member States and the common currency to be the greatest benefit of our membership. Higher confidence in national and European institutions is also a long-term trend. With its accession to the European Union, Slovakia has become an equal partner of the countries that today together form a strong trading power and share common values, such as freedom, democracy or solidarity.
Solidarity and membership in the EU played an important role during the Covid-19 pandemic. Thanks to a joint approach, effective vaccines were delivered to Slovakia at the same time as to all other Member States, and the joint purchase of medical supplies was facilitated. By joining the EU, Slovakia has strongly established itself in the family of developed, modern and democratic countries in Europe. Slovak position and weight on the international stage have improved. As a full-fledged partner, Slovakia participates in decision-making process on important issues that affect developments not only in the EU but also worldwide. Common European legislation provides Slovaks with greater legal certainty, a stronger guarantee of respect for fundamental human rights and the protection of consumer rights. Accession to the Schengen area has facilitated the free movement of people and goods within the EU. The common currency - the euro - has significantly helped companies that have taken away exchange rate risks, reduced transaction costs, brought greater stability and predictability. Accession to the EU has also given us another European identity, and this guarantees us new rights and new opportunities. We can take an active part in European policy-making, whether by participating in the European elections or by expressing our views in various consultations or by participating in the European Parliament. Slovakia is and will be an integral part of the EU."
Slovenia
Ms Mira Lesjak
Head of the Consulate of the Republic of Slovenia in Shanghai
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"The Consulate of the Republic of Slovenia in Shanghai joins in the celebration of Europe Day. On that day, the whole Europe, together with friends in the world celebrate peace and unity of Europe. In the year 2022, values such as peace and unity are worth more than ever before.
EU and China are significant partners. EU has worked a lot over the last years on defining sustainable investments that contribute to climate and environmental objectives. Renewable energy, green infrastructure, energy efficiency and large-scale renovation projects are concrete areas for productive and sustainable investment.
The EU is an attractive partner not only in terms of trade and investment, but also in relation to education and innovation, tourism or healthcare cooperation."
Sweden
Ms Marie-Claire Swärd Capra
Consul General of Sweden in Shanghai
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"The Consulate General of Sweden in Shanghai joins in the celebrations of Europe Day, commemorating the Schuman Declaration of 9 May 1950. Robert Schuman envisaged Europe free from war, founded on co-operation and sharing resources. Today we celebrate Europe’s achievements and remain unified in working for peace and providing support to Europeans everywhere.
Among its achievements, the EU is the world's biggest exporter of manufactured goods and services, and the biggest import market for over 100 countries. Modernity and innovation are key to the EU’s growth, boosting the economy through green technology, sustainable industry and transport, aiming to make Europe climate neutral by 2050.
The EU is a global partner, and our companies take the lead in turning climate and environmental challenges into opportunities. Our longstanding cooperation with China in clean energy, low-emission transport, and climate-related technology, provides an excellent foundation for promoting future joint work with our economic actors."
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Voices from Business
Ms Bettina Schoen-Behanzin
European Chamber Vice President and Shanghai Chapter Chair
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"Europe day marks the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, reminding us of the founding pillars that uphold the European Union: peace and unity. Every year on the 9th May, we gather together to celebrate the achievements of the EU and its 27 member states while looking forward to our joint success in the future. As the Vice President and Chair of the Shanghai Chapter at the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China, I am delighted to continue our work in building bridges between the EU and China through international trade and development under a multilateral trading system. As the EU’s largest trading partner, China remains a top priority for us in Europe, and we look forward to continue building EU-China relations while upholding European values of mutual respect and cooperation.
As the unified, independent voice of European businesses in China, the European Chamber looks forward to continuing to serve as a central platform for the development of a sustainable, prosperous future for both the EU and China. In an increasingly politicised business environment, today is a day we take a step back to remember:
Together we are stronger, together we are better."
Mr Francis Liekens
Shanghai Chapter Vice Chair
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“Happy birthday Europe. Unity is needed now more than ever, to overcome the current different challenges we are facing. 1 voice, 1 message. When it comes to the China-EU business relations we are at a critical point. I see unfortunately a continued exodus of foreign talent leaving China since 2020 mainly due to the Covid restrictions. I hope that China will open up soon and more, so that we can attract again new needed European talent into China. And together, safeguard and develop European businesses in a fair, open and business ethical China market."
Dr Pius S. Hornstein
Shanghai Chapter Vice Chair
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"The Europe Day is a milestone of peace and unity that has a global impact over the world. With a strong scientific legacy, and innovations from such scientists as Thales, Copernic, and Pasteur which positively transformed lives across the globe, Europe is playing a leading role today in science and innovation, which are key to the sustainable development of societies.
The EU and China are key partners in science, with the objective to jointly address global challenges. Faced with a dynamic pandemic, it is certain that a sustainable development of Europe and China calls for enhanced and constructive partnerships in fields like pandemic preparedness.
Multiple scientific collaborations have been already established between European and Chinese stakeholders. In this respect, I am delighted that the European Chamber plays a leading in role in building a dialogue in key innovative sectors, and that multinationals with strong European roots will hopefully continue to play an important role in the Chinese innovation ecosystem for the benefit of all partners."
Ms Holly Lei
Shanghai Chapter Board Member
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"It’s my great pleasure to join my colleagues in offering our best wishes to the citizens of the EU as we embrace the 72th Europe Day. The year 2022 also marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Germany. As a German materials manufacturer and an active member of EUCCC, Covestro is honored to witness and join the celebration for this remarkable journey. We’d like to extend our sincere appreciation to the prestigious EUCCC, for its tremendous achievements in fostering bilateral collaboration between the EU and China.
Covestro believes that collaboration and unity play a key role in the long-term success story of the EU. This is particularly the case when we are facing more political and economic uncertainties in an increasingly volatile environment. Covestro is committed to working with our partners to weather the current storm, while staying focused on our vision of being fully circular. We hope to leverage the valuable resources integrated by EUCCC to shape a sustainable future together."
Mr Allan Gabor
Shanghai Chapter Board Member
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“Celebrating Europe Day during difficult times like these, is that right? After all, both peace in Europe and the health of people in Europe and worldwide are under threat at the moment. Well, consider that Europe Day wants to remind us of the power of European integration to promote the forces that help to protect the lives and health of citizens: Peace and unity, integration and cooperation across borders - in short, the European Dream. I believe that celebrating Europe Day and remembering this exact vision is more important than ever right now.
Our Merck Group, a science and technology company from Darmstadt, Germany, but active worldwide and very committed to China, is mindful of what the European Union stands for: An alliance that is open to science, open to innovation and open to the world. Europe Day is a great occasion to remember that together with our friends in China.“
Mr Jens Ewert
Shanghai Chapter Board Member
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"May 9 is such an important day where we the people in Europe remind ourselves to celebrate, the coming together as European Union, realizing that we are stronger together than each country alone.
This historic moment in 1950, 72 years ago, a few core nations in Europe decided firmly that binding countries together was not only a way to prevent tragedies of two world wars that originated during the past 50 years in Europe, but also building a strong fundament for Europe, in already globalizing world, in which speaking one voice would become never so important than today.
The EU Chamber in China is the voice of Europeans and their businesses in China. Our advocacy activities are ever so critical in our moments we are facing here in China. We must stand solid to protect and affirm our European values, while we also of course respect and understand those of our hosts. At the EU Chamber we promote firmly fair treatment of our businesses and people. It is not about a messaging of superior systems, it is about, mutual respect and peaceful cooperation, creating value through, business and people exchanges, to all our stakeholders in Europe and here in China.
As engaged board member in the Shanghai chapter, rest assured, we shall continue in promoting our mutually fruitful business cooperation for our EU businesses and all European nationals living and working in China, standing clear on Europe’s side without compromise.
On this May 9 – let’s us celebrate once again the start of our Europe, in current times and hopefully for many years to come, China’s largest global business partner."
Mr Roberto Donà
Shanghai Chapter Board Member
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"I belong to the generation born and raised in a European continent made of different countries living separated by borders and many other obstacles but we were proud of our “diversity”. My sons have born and raised in a country belonging to a European community with no borders, with opportunities to move freely and in which they are proud of their “identity” because it is guaranteed by a very simple shared value: freedom.
What else do we need to say to describe Europe? Obstacles versus opportunity, diversity versus identity, borders versus free movement, these are just a few of real and tangible achievements that make Europe home for all of us, a place in which the dominant ideology is united in diversity!
Happy European Celebration Day."
Dr Ioana Kraft
Shanghai Chapter General Manager
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“Every year on 9th May the European Chamber Shanghai Chapter with the support of EU Member States’ Consulates General celebrates Europe Day in Shanghai with a reception. The current COVID-19 outbreak and ongoing lockdowns in the city make it impossible this year for the first time to hold this celebration in person. It is also for the first time in 20 years of its existence that our office had to remain closed for almost two months now. Nevertheless, our team has been working remotely to ensure that the voice of European Business in Shanghai is heard through government and media engagement, hoping for speedy business resumption and return to normal life.“
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