Jackie Chan, Chinese astronauts win 2016 influence awards

Actor Jackie Chan

Chen Siqing, the president of Bank of China, said that Pei is a legend for the Chinese given that his landmark designs are standing as buildings across the world.

Pei has designed two buildings for Bank of China in Beijing and Hong Kong. His most recognized work is the new Louvre museum in Paris.

In an acceptance speech read by his nephew, Pei said he was proud of his Chinese blood even after spending 80 years abroad. Architecture has no borders and it brings beauty to the world, according to Pei.

Chinese actress Yao Chen was given an award for bringing attention to the issue of refugees. Yao has visited those affected by war, poverty or illness in countries across the world since 2010, including Lebanon, Pakistan, Ethiopia and the Philippines. In China, she is a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Yao recalled her visit to Syria three years ago, when she told a little girl that the war would end soon. However, Yao said she felt that she cheated the girl because the war is ongoing.