Message from President Li Lihui

The year 2008 was an extraordinary one in the history of BOC. During the year, we adhered to the scientific approach on development; responded to unprecedented challenges; and achieved the sustainable and sound development of all business segments of our bank. We also fulfilled our commitments to social responsibility and made great progress in the development of a harmonious society.

As at the end of 2008, the total assets of BOC reached 6,955.694 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 16.01 percent. Net profit increased by 4.93 percent to 65.073 billion yuan. Return on equity (ROE) increased by 0.38 percentage points to 14.23 percent. The non-performing credit asset ratio stood at 2.65 percent, down 0.47 percentage points. In terms of core capital, BOC ranked 10th among the world's top 1,000 banks at the end of 2008. The capitalization of the Group reached 669.997 billion yuan, giving BOC a 6th ranking among listed banks worldwide.

Acting as a responsible corporate citizen is at the centre of everything we do. Looking back at the year just passed, we kept in mind our mission and commitment, continued our pursuit of excellence, and duly performed our duties as a socially responsible organization at every critical moment.