Beijing: U.S. DCM in China Opens Home to American Chamber of Commerce in Honor of American Public Diplomacy Envoy Michelle Kwan

The U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission, David Sedney, opened his home on the evening of January 19, 2007 to the American Chamber of Commerce in the People’s Republic of China (AmCham-China) to honor U.S. Champion Figure Skater and American Public Diplomacy Envoy Michelle Kwan.  Mr. Sedney used his opening remarks to thank Ms. Kwan in her role as America’s first Public Diplomacy Envoy and to also pay tribute to the AmCham-China’s Corporate Social Responsibility Committee (CSR) who have recently publicized a long list of charity community projects AmCham businesses and members have sponsored in China.  Ms. Kwan encouraged all in attendance to say hello to her and also commended the AmCham-China for their CSR initiatives in her remarks just before guests enjoyed a light dinner buffet.  Ms. Kwan also signed numerous items the AmCham-China charity committee will auction in future charity fund raising events.  In addition to the grown-ups in attendance, the U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission invited young children of the AmCham members as well as a small number of Embassy children eager to meet Ms. Kwan.

The Deputy Chief of Mission’s reception provided a pleasant opportunity for Ms. Kwan to meet members of the American business community in China and at the same time highlight the admirable CSR projects AmCham-China has undertaken to improve the lives of the Chinese.  Attendees were especially pleased to have the opportunity to take pictures of their children with Ms. Kwan, who was clearly enjoying her time with her young fans.