Charlotte Fernández
UKIMEA Press Office,Leeds
Arup Non-Executive Director, Sir Michael Bear, has been appointed as UK Special Envoy for Sustainable Urbanisation to China.
The UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, made the announcement at the Sixth China-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue event in London, which he hosted with Chinese Vice Premier Ma Kai.
As Special Envoy, Sir Michael will represent UK industry at the highest level, providing advice on UKTI related programmes and engaging with Chinese policymakers on issues around urbanisation. He will also host inward delegations and lead trade missions to China relevant to urbanisation and resilience.
‘New and renewed cities’ was a major theme at this year’s UK-China Economic and Financial Dialogue, reflecting the many opportunities for collaboration between the British and Chinese governments and businesses. Sir Michael’s appointment will help ensure the long-term success of this strengthened cooperation.
“There could not be a better time to take up this hugely exciting new role. China and the UK will benefit hugely from our shared expertise in meeting the challenges of urbanisation. I look forward to helping to strengthen the already strong ties between the two countries in this field, working closely with the UK’s Minister for Cities, Greg Clark, and with our global leaders in urbanisation in both China and the UK.
Sir Michael Bear, Arup