Peng Liyuan, spouse of Chinese President Xi Jinping, welcomed spouses of leaders attending the 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit to a cultural excursion along Tianjin's Haihe River on Monday. The event highlighted China's emphasis on cultural diplomacy and regional cooperation ahead of next year's high-stakes summit.
Dressed in vibrant traditional attire, children greeted the delegation with songs and waves of national flags at the riverside pier. Peng personally greeted each guest, fostering an atmosphere of warmth before a commemorative group photo against Tianjin's iconic skyline.
The Haihe River tour showcased Tianjin's blend of historical architecture and modern development, reflecting the city's role as a key economic hub in northern China. Observers note such cultural exchanges strengthen interpersonal ties among SCO member states, which represent over 40% of the global population.
This gathering precedes the 2025 SCO Summit, where leaders are expected to address economic collaboration, security challenges, and sustainable development across Asia. Tianjin's selection as the tour location underscores its growing prominence in China's international engagement strategy.
