The International Chamber of Commerce regretfully announces the postponement of its Banking Commission Spring meeting and its related events due to take place in Beijing on 21-23 April.

Although over 400 participants were expected to attend the gathering, the decision was taken under exceptional circumstances, as ash from a volcano in Iceland continues to cause major disruptions in air travel across most of Europe.

The ICC Trade Finance Forum on 20 April in Beijing, will however take place as scheduled.

The decision to cancel the meeting was taken after much due consideration. “Flight cancellations and flying restriction imposed over much of Europe's airspace has forced a majority of speakers from Europe and others regions of the world alike to cancel travel plans,” said ICC Banking Commission Secretary Thierry Senechal. “While the outlook for air travel remains uncertain, we believe that postponing our events is the best decision at this time.”

ICC expressed disappointment and extends regrets to all participants who will be affected by the decision. ICC also thanked ICC China for the dedication and effort put into organizing the meeting, which will be rescheduled at a later date.