London and was originally founded in 1901 to promote greater knowledge and understanding of Central Asia and surrounding countries. With the passage of time, the area has been extended to include the whole of Asia including Hong Kong, and they hope to set up a branch here. These developments indicate that there is a high interest in this part of the world and we welcome the opportunity to collaborate whenever and wherever possible. In the year to come therefore the Society anticipates it will be looking ahead and will join together whenever appropriate to promote and encourage an active interest in East Asia, and in particular China, through the medium of lectures, discussions and by publishing an annual Journal.