Bristol firms with links to China – or those wishing to explore them – are being invited to welcome in the Year of the Rooster at a special Chinese New Year celebration banquet in the city next month.
The gala banquet is being stage by the Bristol and West of England China Bureau, which works to connect businesses in the region with those in China.
It takes place on Wednesday, February 8, at Dynasty Restaurant in St Thomas Street.
With major Chinese investment in the new Hinkley Point C nuclear power station under way and a desire to form further trade links between the South West and China following the Brexit vote, the dinner comes at a pivotal time in the region’s relationship with China.
Bureau chief executive Dianne Francombe said: “As well as traditional lion dancers providing entertainment and a banquet we are planning a firecracker of an evening where businesses can network and meet up.
“It is a great tradition in China for business to be done over a meal. At the event will be members of the local Chinese community and West businesses who already have links with China, as well as those who want to forge links.”
Celebrations will be led by the Lord Mayor of Bristol, Cllr Jeff Lovell, and will honour Bristol’s sister city relationship with Guangzhou – China’s third-largest city.
Dianne Francombe added: “Almost every day now there is a new initiative linking the UK with China, including the recent launch of a trans-continental freight train service. There are challenges in forming alliances between our two very different countries but many businesses are now enjoying positive links.”
Individual tickets or tables can be purchased through Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/chinese-new-year-extravaganza-tickets-28621696264 or through the China Bureau website: http://www.chinabureau.co.uk/
Pictured: Guests at a previous Bristol and West of England China Bureau Chinese New Year banquet enjoy a traditional lion dance
