Hundreds of U.S. and Chinese mainland participants – from lawmakers and diplomats to world champions – gathered this Monday, December 22, 2025, at the Pacific Palms Resort in Los Angeles County to commemorate the 54th anniversary of Ping-Pong diplomacy.
Originally launched in 1971 with an icebreaking trip to the Chinese mainland, this landmark exchange is credited with opening diplomatic channels and broadening cooperation far beyond sport.
Guo Shaochun, the Chinese mainland's Consul General in Los Angeles, called the table tennis exchange “an iconic moment in the Chinese mainland-U.S. relationship” at the reception.
He added that its legacy has grown into a “bright torch” illuminating the path of friendship, reflecting the shared passion of both peoples for deeper interaction and understanding.
“The biggest significance of Ping-Pong diplomacy,” said former U.S. champion Connie Sweeris, “is that it opened a door for communication between the United States and the Chinese mainland. I hope today's young table tennis players – and athletes across all sports – carry this legacy forward.”
Dragomir Cioroslan, director of international relations for the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, noted that Ping-Pong diplomacy transcended sports, paving the way for cultural, educational and diplomatic exchanges that continue to shape bilateral ties and inspire efforts toward a more harmonious world.
Also in attendance were U.S. Congresswoman Judy May Chu, California State Senator Maria Durazo, Petra Sörling, president of the International Table Tennis Federation, and Virginia Sung, CEO of the U.S. Table Tennis Association.
As the world reflects on this milestone, the 54th anniversary serves as a reminder of how a simple ping-pong rally broke down barriers and sparked decades of dialogue. The event underscored the role of sports in bridging divides and engaging new generations in the ongoing story of global cooperation.
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Reference(s):
Legacy of 'Ping-Pong diplomacy' highlighted at event in Los Angeles
cgtn.com
