On Monday afternoon, Peng Liyuan, spouse of Chinese President Xi Jinping, welcomed spouses and representatives of SCO leaders on a cultural tour along Tianjin’s historic Haihe River as part of the 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit.
The event began at the riverside pier, where local children waved Chinese and foreign flags while singing "Waiting for you in Tianjin." After handshakes and a group photo, the delegation boarded a scenic cruise showcasing Tianjin’s blend of time-honored heritage and vibrant modern skyline.
As they sailed, Peng highlighted the city’s evolution as a major port and cultural hub. “The Haihe River has witnessed our city’s growth and the exchange of diverse cultures,” she said, inviting guests to sip traditional tea and enjoy live sanxian ensemble performances.
The group included the spouses of the Presidents of Uzbekistan, Mongolia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey, along with delegates from Armenia, Nepal, Egypt, Malaysia, and Iran. Participants praised China’s rich traditional culture and the milestones of Chinese modernization.
The gathering provided a platform for friendly dialogue and mutual understanding, reflecting the spirit of cultural diplomacy. Earlier that day, President Xi introduced the Global Governance Initiative, calling for collaborative efforts toward a fairer, more balanced international system and underscoring China’s commitment to peace and development.
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Peng Liyuan hosts spouses of SCO leaders, showcases Chinese culture
cgtn.com
