SACU celebrates 60 years of encouraging Chinese-UK friendship

The Society for Anglo-Chinese Understanding (SACU), a group founded to encourage friendship and cultural understanding between the UK and China, has celebrated its 60th anniversary at King's College London. 

The event also marked the 110th anniversary of the birth of George Hogg, a British humanitarian remembered for his work in China.

During a full day of events dignitaries, academics, and students reflected on SACU's six decades of work. 

Wang Qi, Chargé d'Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in the UK, encouraged attendees to "seize the moment and ride the tide of our times by promoting mutual learning, building more bridges of cooperation and fostering cultural and people-to-people exchange."

SACU Chair Zoë Reed echoed this message, emphasising that "SACU is not just a good idea, it's fundamental to the future of the world and the future of Britain… particularly in our relationship with China."

In the afternoon, the focus turned to the legacy of George Hogg, who is widely celebrated for his role in co-founding the Shandan Bailie School in Gansu Province in the 1940's. 

Known for his courage during China's War of Resistance Against Japan, Hogg became a symbol of international solidarity. 

To mark his contribution, his home town of Harpenden was presented with a commemorative statue. Speaking at the event, Mayor Beth Fisher said that Hogg's "selfless service for the Chinese children during those seven years in China is much admired by us all."

Guests were also given a special screening of 'Witness to War: George Hogg in China', a CGTN documentary chronicling his life and work. Hogg's biographer, and nephew, Mark Aylwin Thomas spoke about the importance of people-to-people contact as the foundation for better international relations - an ethos shared by SACU.

The day concluded with a panel discussion led by Kerry Brown, Director of King's China Institute, who reflected on 60 years of dialogue between the two nations. For many, including Hogg's great niece in attendance, the event was both moving and inspiring.

With its legacy now firmly tied to both history and the future, SACU used this event to reaffirm its mission: to honour pioneers like George Hogg and continue to build bridges of friendship and understanding between the UK and China.