The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations held our annual black-tie Gala Dinner on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at The Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York.
This year’s honoree is former U.S. Secretary of State Dr. Henry A. Kissinger. In 1971, Dr. Kissinger made a secret visit to China and laid the foundations for the establishment of formal relations between the United States and China. This pioneering diplomatic work and his thought leadership in the five decades since are integral to our understanding of U.S.-China relations. Dr. Kissinger has been our executive vice chair for many years, and in 1986 the National Committee honored him at our inaugural gala. Now, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, we once again honored him and his remarkable legacy.
In addition to featuring remarks from both Dr. Kissinger and former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Timothy F. Geithner, this year’s Gala served as the conclusion of our U.S.-China People’s Dialogue featuring American and Chinese luminaries from various industries.
Like Dr. Kissinger, the National Committee has been at the forefront of the dynamic Sino-American relationship since our founding in 1966. Over the subsequent five decades, the National Committee has been committed to promoting forthright dialogue, mutual understanding, and constructive cooperation. Our programs and activities play an essential role in promoting economic integration and world peace.
