August 19, 2008 - Chairman of the Shanghai Public Relations Association (SPRA), Professor Mao Jingquan; Vice Chairman, Mr. Wang Junyi; and Vice Secretary General, Ms. Qian Li, paid a visit to Hill & Knowlton Shanghai office today. The two parties held an in-depth discussion on the important role that the PR industry can play in Shanghai's urban development and the city's opening up to the outside world.

Professor Mao noted that over the past 20 years since it was established, SPRA has witnessed significant changes with Shanghai's fast-paced development, which has attracted the world's attention. The city's growth and development has created optimal conditions for the PR industry to thrive, and increased the communication needs of the city and domestic enterprises. He also said that as a world-leading PR agency with a history of more than 80 years, Hill & Knowlton is well-positioned to play a key role in building the bridge for communications between Shanghai and the world, and thus enhancing mutual understanding between China and overseas.

President and COO of Hill & Knowlton Asia Pacific, Vivian Lines, and Managing Director of Hill & Knowlton Shanghai, David Zhao, introduced the company's development in China over the past 24 years, and emphasized Hill & Knowlton's willingness to contribute its extensive experience, knowledge and expertise in communications to benefit Shanghai and local enterprises.

Both sides agreed to further strengthen cooperation in the future to enhance the development of the local PR industry, and contribute to building Shanghai into a truly international city.