A screen shows a video of Harvard University Professor Emeritus Ezra Vogel's acceptance speech for a special Lifetime Achievement Award under the Blue Cloud Award during the 2019 Blue Cloud Gala in New York, the United States, on Nov. 25, 2019. Harvard University Professor Emeritus Ezra Vogel was honored by China Institute here Monday evening with the annual Blue Cloud Award for his contribution and dedication to enhancing China-U.S. relations. (Xinhua/Qin Lang)

Harvard University Professor Emeritus Ezra Vogel was honored by China Institute here Monday evening with the annual Blue Cloud Award for his contribution and dedication to enhancing China-U.S. relations.

The 89-year-old China scholar was honored with a special Lifetime Achievement Award under the Blue Cloud Award. In a video of his acceptance speech, the long-term China watcher said the opportunity to work with China is very important for Americans "who care about China."

He also praised China Institute's efforts to bring together people from the two countries, especially by "making efforts to hear real Chinese voices."

"I think having Chinese voices and people who live there and see America from their eyes directly is very important," said Vogel.

Chinese Consul General in New York Huang Ping delivered a keynote speech at the gala, expressing his confidence in a good China-U.S. relationship.

Huang appreciated China Institute's commitment to bringing people across the Pacific together over the past 93 years.

"I believe if we keep this confidence and courage, we can move ahead and have another 93 years or even more," he said.

China Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing understanding and strengthening trust between the United States and China.

According to its website, the institute presents the Blue Cloud Award to "people whose exceptional achievements contribute significantly to U.S.-China friendship and understanding."