Vietnamese, Chinese First Ladies highlight cultural exchange during Beijing meeting

Their meeting took place within the framework of the ongoing state visit to China by Vietnam’s Party chief and State President To Lam through Friday.

The First Ladies attended a rehearsal of a musical production, visited automated service spaces operated by robots, and experienced virtual stage technology and a high-tech recording studio.

They also engaged in a cordial and open exchange, sharing practical experiences and perspectives on cultural exchange and development between the two countries.

Ly expressed her pleasure at returning to China and meeting Peng again.

She conveyed sincere appreciation to the Chinese Party, state, and people, particularly Chinese Party General Secretary and President Xi Jinping and Peng for their warm reception extended to the high-ranking Vietnamese delegation.

She recalled fond memories of her previous visit in August 2024, particularly her interactions with Peng.

Impressed by the national center’s scale and sophistication, Ly praised the professionalism of Chinese performers and the country’s advanced stagecraft.

Recalling the dance show ‘Peacock’ performed in Hanoi by Chinese artist Yang Liping, she encouraged more tours of quality Chinese artistic performances to Vietnam.

She noted that such activities would broaden public access to the arts, spread cultural exchange, and solidify the social foundation of the bilateral ties.

While politics and the economy form the pillars of relations between Vietnam and China, culture and arts serve as a bridge connecting the hearts of their people.

Ly said upon arriving in Beijing on Tuesday, she visited the Soong Ching Ling Youth Science and Technology Cultural Exchange Center, where she witnessed the sincere and pure friendship between young people of both countries.

She affirmed that Vietnam and China share common priorities in valuing education and dedicating the best resources to child care, development, and protection.

For her part, Prof. Peng welcomed the reunion and reflected on her own positive memories of past visits to Vietnam, as well as the August 2024 trip by the Vietnamese leader and his spouse to China.

She introduced several forms of Chinese stage performance, particularly musicals, a highly academic and increasingly prioritized art form in China.

Prof. Peng also shared insights into the adoption of modern technologies in social services, noting that major international events hosted by China, such as the 2022 Winter Olympics, have incorporated advanced technological solutions.

Notably, she expressed her interest in Vietnamese cuisine and a desire for more opportunities to enjoy its signature dishes, especially pho.

On this occasion, Ly extended an invitation for Prof. Peng and her family to visit Vietnam again in the near future.

Prof. Peng accepted the invitation with pleasure.