Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, hosted Kim Hea Kyung, spouse of the Republic of Korea's President Lee Jae Myung, for a Beijing meeting on January 5, 2026. The dialogue focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in women's empowerment and child welfare initiatives, reflecting growing people-to-people exchanges between the two nations.
New Framework for Child Protection
During President Lee's state visit, both countries signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance collaboration on children's rights protection and well-being promotion. The agreement establishes regular policy dialogues and joint training programs for childcare professionals, signaling renewed commitment to intergenerational development.
Building on Decade-Long Progress
Peng's advocacy work received special recognition, particularly her 2014 UNESCO appointment and the 2023 China-Africa joint initiative benefiting children in 50 African countries. These efforts align with China's broader strategy to improve maternal and child health indicators, now ranked among the world's top upper-middle-income nations by WHO standards.
Global Development Commitments
Building on commitments announced at last October's Global Summit of Women in Beijing, China continues expanding international partnerships. Current initiatives include a $100 million allocation for women-focused development projects and plans to train 50,000 foreign women professionals through 2030. UNICEF representative Amakobe Sande praised China's 'practical, results-oriented' approach to global child welfare challenges.
