It is an honour to support this hugely important initiative, Generation UK.
I believe that the next generation will play a crucial role in taking UK-China relations forward. Young people are the leaders of tomorrow in diplomacy, trade, science, education, creative industries and beyond.
So I am proud to be the founding patron of Generation UK, a campaign by the British Council which does fantastic work in bringing young people from across the UK to study and gain on-the-ground experience in China.
Having first visited China as a teacher in the 1980s in Tianjin and Wuhan, I am keenly aware of the importance of engagement with China. Helping young people develop skills and understanding of China is vital - I cannot exaggerate its importance for the future UK-China relationship.
In an increasingly complex and globalised world, the Generation UK campaign is helping to provide the UK with a generation of young people who are increasingly confident, skilled and culturally astute when engaging with China.
At this juncture in global affairs and UK-China relations, the UK remains committed to being an informed and influential player on the world stage. Our Generation UK alumni are central to that vision.
I look forward to following your transformational experiences and the wonderful contribution you will make to our country and UK-China relations in the future.