Sir Robert Hart served as the Inspector-General of the Imperial Maritime Customs Service of the Qing dynasty from 1863 until his death in 1911. He provided the government with more than 20 per cent of its annual revenue, set up the Chinese Post Office, founded a system of lighthouses along the coast, bought British warships that were the foundation of the modern Chinese navy and negotiated a peace treaty to end the Sino-French war of 1884-85.

The EU Chamber is delighted to welcome author Mark O'Neill to share his insights on the protagonist of his latest book Ireland’s Imperial Mandarin who he describes as living a life in China unlike any foreigner ever has or ever will, including details of a private life that wouldn't be out of place in a fictitious account. Many of the themes explored in the book; including the then governments dilemma of welcoming or protecting against foreign investment and influence still resonate today.

For more information or to register, visit: http://www.europeanchamber.com.cn/en/upcoming-events/12104/Book_Launch_Ireland_s_Imperial_Mandarin