President Xi, along with his wife, was greeted by Prince Charles on behalf of the Queen. Later on they traveled to Horse Guards Parade for the ceremony where thousands of people awaited. (Photo : Reuters)
Through the resources and determination of Hong Kong businessman Sir David Tang, the China Exchange Chinese Cultural Center was opened during the auspicious first day of the Year of the Sheep.
The significance of the event was conveyed in the presence of British royalty at the launch of the center, as the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall were on hand to oversee the proceedings.
Tang told reporters that he was delighted with the decision of the royal couple to attend the opening ceremony of the China Exchange.
He further explained that his commitment to the establishment of the cultural center was motivated by a desire to expand the consciousness of the U.K. public so that Chinese culture, as well as the iconic Chinatown area, can be perceived as far more than just Chinese food.
The notable Hong Kong figure, who founded the Shanghai Tang fashion chain, said that he looks forward to the staging of lectures, presentations and performances at the China Exchange premises.
Notable London-based Chinese community members joined Teng in his positive outlook, with Linda Lee, the chief executive of equestrian company EquexChina telling the media that "the royals" visit significantly increases recognition of Chinese culture in mainstream British society.
The Chinese ambassador to Great Britain, Liu Xiaoming, concurred with Teng by stating that he is eagerly anticipating important cultural exchanges between the U.K. and China over the course of 2015, while he is "confident that the Year of the Sheep will witness ever- strengthening China-U.K. cooperation."
