Peng Liyuan's US Visit Projects Softer Image of China

Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan charmed US audiences during President Xi Jinping's Washington trip, conversing with Melania Trump in English and engaging with a youth choir, projecting a softer image of China amid bilateral tensions over trade and Taiwan. Peng attended a performance of "Jasmine Flower" at the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art, where children called her "Mother Peng." Ambassador Xie Feng posted on X that she encouraged American teens to study Chinese language and culture as "envoys of friendship." Chinese social media heavily restricted discussion of Peng's activities and fashion, reflecting sensitivities about leaders' personal lives. Historically, first ladies kept low profiles due to Mao's widow Jiang Qing's political infamy, though Peng, a former military soprano, has championed HIV/AIDS causes.