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Magnolia Silver Awards Ceremony 2024

On November 23, 2024, the Shanghai Magnolia Silver Awards ceremony took place, celebrating the contributions of distinguished expatriates to the city's social and economic landscape. This prestigious award, named after Shanghai's iconic magnolia flower, honors individuals who have made a significant impact in various fields.

This year's event highlighted 50 outstanding recipients from 18 countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States. These individuals have excelled in sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare, education, culture, sports, and agriculture, showcasing their dedication to the growth of Shanghai.

Notable among the honorees was Philippe Cinquini, a French art history professor based at Shanghai International Studies University, who arrived at the ceremony donning an exquisite French tweed hat. Cinquini has been a prominent advocate for cultural exchange between France and China, actively involved in organizing exhibitions like 'Shanghai/Paris: Modern Art of China.' He emphasizes the importance of fostering friendships between young people of both countries, advocating for greater reciprocal visits.

Marc Delpech, the national coordinator of the China-France cooperation program at the Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, was also recognized for his contributions to Sino-French relations. A member of the National Academy of Medicine in France, Delpech has facilitated the exchange of medical professionals between China and France, enhancing educational ties and operational practices in healthcare.

“The cooperation between our two nations has deep roots and remains steadfast,” Delpech remarked, expressing his commitment to acting as a bridge fostering collaboration between France and China. His efforts in sending French doctors to Shanghai to teach annually and implementing the 'Acting as Interns' program have been instrumental in improving medical training and standards.

Attendees of the ceremony expressed their gratitude for the honorees' respective contributions, underscoring the vital role expatriates play in Shanghai's development story. This event is a testament to Shanghai's welcoming spirit and its recognition of the global community's importance in shaping its cultural and economic fabric.

The Magnolia Silver Awards, now in its 2024 edition, continue to symbolize not only recognition of individual achievements but also collective efforts that transcend national borders, echoing Shanghai's commitment to international cooperation and cultural exchange. With such initiatives, the city reinforces its stance as a global hub for talent and innovation, where diverse backgrounds converge to drive progress and understanding.