Peng Liyuan, Melania Trump bond over Jasmine Flower at Smithsonian museum
SCMP · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
China's first lady Peng Liyuan appeared visibly moved during a cultural exchange at the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art on Thursday, where a youth choir performed the beloved Chinese folk song "Jasmine Flower." US first lady Melania Trump hosted Peng during the second day of the Chinese state visit to Washington, creating an intimate moment of cultural diplomacy between the two women. The performance featured the Hope Chinese School youth choir, which waved Chinese and American national flags while singing the iconic melody. Peng, a celebrated soprano in her own right, softly hummed along as the children performed, later turning to Trump with a smile and placing her hand over her heart. As the performance concluded, the Chinese first lady called out "bravo" and joined Trump in applauding the young singers.
Key Points
- The Hope Chinese School youth choir performed "Jasmine Flower" (Mo Li Hua) at the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art on Thursday
- Peng Liyuan, herself a celebrated soprano with the People's Liberation Army, has performed this song at major occasions including the 2008 Beijing Olympics countdown
- The song was played during the 1997 Hong Kong and 1999 Macau reunification ceremonies, making it a patriotic anthem
- In 2017, President Xi's granddaughter Arabella performed the same song in Mandarin for the couple at Mar-a-Lago
- Peng wore a dark navy blue high-collared Qipao-style midi dress with a silver brooch, while Trump chose a black Alexander McQueen coat dress
Why It Matters
The moment illustrates how cultural diplomacy continues to serve as a bridge between the two superpowers at a time of ongoing trade and strategic tensions. Peng's status as a distinguished soprano who has carried this song through decades of national milestones adds personal resonance to the gesture, transforming a children's choir performance into a symbol of enduring cultural bonds .
The moment illustrates how cultural diplomacy continues to serve as a bridge between the two superpowers at a time of ongoing trade and strategic tensions. Peng's status as a distinguished soprano who has carried this song through decades of national milestones adds personal resonance to the gesture, transforming a children's choir performance into a symbol of enduring cultural bonds .