Bob Iger, Chairman and former CEO of the Walt Disney Company, said he was “inspired by their vision” and a “firm believer” in “strong collaboration” while praising the Chinese Communist Party.
Iger made his remarks at the National Committee on US-China Relations (NCUSCR) gala in 2011, where he was invited as the event’s honoree. Iger revealed Disney was “inspired by the vision” of Chinese communist apparatchiks while speaking at the NCUSCR, which advocates for closer ties between the US and China and frequently hosts events alongside Chinese Communist Party officials:
“We’ve also worked hard to establish a number of mutually beneficial relationships with many officials throughout China. We’re inspired by their vision and we’re grateful that they share many of our beliefs, including one about the importance of intellectual property protection.”
“I’ve watched China emerge into a global economic force, an inspiring source of great innovation, offering opportunities that we see as virtually unlimited, and the Walt Disney company has certainly been increasing its presence in that vast country,” Iger also offered in praise of the communist, repressive country.
“I happen to firmly believe that strong collaboration between China and the United States aligns our two economies, the most recognized innovators in the world, and that’s going to generate untold opportunity,” he added. At the event, Iger also hyped the company’s forthcoming Shanghai Disneyland venture, which now employs Chinese Communist Party members and hosts a “part activity center” adjacent to the park:
“We’re also excited about becoming part of the Shanghai community and welcoming its people into the Disney family. We’re certainly grateful for the support that we’ve had from the central government, from the Shanghai government, and from our new partners the Shanghai Shendi group.”
Referencing a Chinese Communist Party ambassador, Iger revealed “I’m trying to get him to Disneyland as soon as possible. We’ve had presidents of China visit Disneyland. Now it’s time for the ambassador to the United States to visit.”
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