Chinese, Indonesian first ladies watch a folk music performance in Beijing
- Peng Liyuan hosts her counterpart Iriana Joko Widodo during display of soft power
- She describes nations as ‘important neighbours’ and says ‘music knows no borders’
Peng, a famous folk singer herself, met Iriana at the Diaoyutai State Guest House on Tuesday, with Peng describing China and Indonesia as “important neighbours”, according to state broadcaster CCTV.
“Friendship between the two countries has a long history,” Peng was quoted as saying during the meeting. “We look forward to the deepening of exchanges between the two countries in all the relevant fields.”
In response, Iriana said Indonesia was looking forward to welcoming more Chinese visitors, according to the report.
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China, Indonesia vow stronger ties as President Joko Widodo tours East Asia
The Chinese president has engaged in minimal in-person diplomacy during the pandemic, and Peng has mostly stayed out of the public spotlight – this was one of the few times in recent years that she has received foreign guests.
The last time was during the Winter Games, when she hosted Maria de Lourdes Alcivar, the first lady of Ecuador, at a Peking opera show.
On Tuesday, the two first ladies watched students from the China Conservatory of Music singing a well-known Indonesian folk song – Boat Song – accompanied by the ruan, a traditional Chinese string instrument.
“Music knows no borders and can bridge hearts and convey friendship,” Peng said, telling her visitor about Chinese folk instruments, according to CCTV.
“Our two countries share similar cultures, arts and ideas, and we hope that cultural exchange and mutual appreciation will play a greater role in enhancing friendship between the two sides,” she was quoted as saying.
She attended a meeting of the official China Federation of Literary and Art Circles in December, when she was re-elected as a deputy chair.
Xi and Peng later hosted a dinner for Widodo and Iriana.
