Shanghai Honors 50 Foreign Talents with Magnolia Silver Awards
Shanghai proudly hosted its annual Magnolia Silver Awards, celebrating the remarkable contributions of 50 expatriates hailing from 18 different countries. This event highlights the vital role that international residents play in the city's development and its global exchanges.
A Special Ceremony at the Grand Halls
The awards ceremony took place in the Grand Halls, situated at the northern end of the Bund. During the event, Kong Fu'an, the director-general of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Shanghai Municipal People's Government, presented medals and certificates to the deserving recipients. His speech underscored Shanghai's identity as a progressive, innovative, and welcoming city that is leading the way toward modernization.
The Importance of Expats in Shanghai
Kong highlighted the contributions made by expatriates, international enterprises, and foreign organizations in shaping the city. He acknowledged that these foreign residents are not merely observers but active participants who contribute significantly to the local landscape.
Recognizing Diverse Fields and Contributions
This year's award winners come from a wide range of sectors including finance, technology, healthcare, education, sports, and more. One notable recipient was Pietro Brambilla from Italy, who serves as the North Asia chief financial officer at L'Oreal China. Brambilla has played a pivotal role in strengthening L'Oreal's presence in Shanghai, making it the company's largest market worldwide.
Expanding International Cooperation
Another award winner, Professor Marc Delpech from France, spoke about his long-term work in fostering Sino-French medical collaborations. As the vice-dean of the Sino-French School of Medicine at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Delpech has been instrumental in training French-speaking doctors, thereby enhancing educational ties between China and France.
Profile of Influential Expat Lawyers
Carlo D'Andrea, the chief representative of Studio Legale DAndrea, who has supported numerous foreign companies in establishing themselves in Shanghai, also received recognition. D'Andrea expressed admiration for Shanghai, stating that it is an ideal location for business, particularly in new technology sectors.
Direct Engagement with City Leaders
D'Andrea emphasized the unique opportunity that business leaders have to engage directly with Shanghai's government officials. He noted that the city’s leadership regularly seeks input from international business figures, fostering an environment conducive to collaboration and innovation.
A Legacy of Honoring Contributions
Since its inception in 1989, the Magnolia Silver Award has become a symbol of recognition for expatriates. The city has also introduced other honors over the years, including the Magnolia Gold Award and Honorary Citizenship. To date, over 1,877 expatriates have been celebrated, illustrating Shanghai's heartfelt gratitude for the contributions made by foreign residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Magnolia Silver Award?
The Magnolia Silver Award is an annual recognition given by Shanghai to honor outstanding contributions made by expatriates living in the city.
Who presented the Magnolia Silver Awards?
Kong Fu'an, the director-general of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Shanghai Municipal People's Government, presented the awards during the ceremony.
In which sectors do the award recipients excel?
The award recipients come from a variety of fields including finance, healthcare, technology, education, and more, showcasing their diverse contributions.
How long has the Magnolia Silver Award been awarded?
The Magnolia Silver Award has been presented annually since 1989, recognizing expatriates for over 35 years.
What impact do expatriates have on Shanghai?
Expatriates play a crucial role in Shanghai's development and international relations, contributing to the city’s economy and cultural exchanges.
