Peng Liyuan utilizes cultural diplomacy during Washington visit

During President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Washington, D.C., Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan utilized cultural diplomacy to foster a softer image of China amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions with the United States.

While visiting the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art, Peng Liyuan engaged in conversation with U.S. First Lady Melania Trump. Observers noted that Peng spoke English without the need for a translator. During the visit, Peng also interacted with a youth choir from the Hope Chinese School, joining them in singing the Chinese folk song ‘Jasmine Flower.’

Peng expressed appreciation for the United States' recent efforts to return Chinese cultural artifacts to their country of origin. She emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between the two nations through cultural exchange, heritage preservation, and encouraging younger generations to study Chinese language and culture.