Mr. Andy Tung, Vice Chairman of the China–United States Exchange Foundation, paid tribute to his father’s values, character, and lifelong dedication to public service at the China Institute in America’s Centennial Gala in New York on May 28, 2026, where Mr. Tung Chee Hwa was honored.
“Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, I’m deeply honored to have this opportunity to join this Centennial Gala, celebrating 100 years of the China Institute of America. I'd also like to express a deep appreciation to the Institute for honoring my father, C.H. Tung, who unfortunately couldn't be here himself tonight.
For those of you who know my Dad, he is first and foremost a family man. He's also one of the hardest working people that I know, intellectually curious in all sorts of things, and always focused on finding long-term solutions for hard, hard problems. He is also a patriot, extremely proud of the rise of China during his lifetime. He also believed deeply in the betterment of the lives of the Chinese people.
At the same time, he has a fondness and a deep love for the U.S. He spent his early professional life, as well as his early years raising a young family while living here in Boston and in New York City, and it was through these experiences that he really learned to appreciate the United States. I might also add, and let me apologize to the New York Knicks fans here today, he is a die-hard Boston Celtics fan.
He understood the significance of 1997 and he worked tirelessly as Hong Kong's First Chief Executive to implement the ‘one country, two systems’ concept, and to lead Hong Kong into a new era. He served this nation with pride, conviction, and confidence — and as has been said so eloquently by so many speakers before me, he also truly believed that the relationship between China and the U.S. is the most consequential relationship in the world today. While there are differences between these two great nations, it is to the benefit of both countries and all its people to find a way to work together.
He believes in policies that are rooted in principles and champions better communications and mutual understanding. He spent much of his time after his work as Chief Executive at the China-United States Exchange Foundation in Hong Kong exactly to promote this. There are many here tonight who have done a great deal for their countries, and specifically for U.S.-China relations. The China Institute itself, of course, has contributed so much over its last 100 years.
Should my father have been able to come and participate here today, he would, I'm sure he would express how honored and deeply humbled to have been included amongst this distinguished group.
Thank you very much.”
