Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed the enduring importance of civilian exchanges between China and the United States this week, sending a personalized Chinese New Year card to friends in Iowa on February 16, 2026. The gesture comes as both nations navigate evolving bilateral dynamics in the new decade.
In his message, President Xi emphasized: "Regardless of how the situation evolves, the desire of the Chinese and American peoples for exchanges and cooperation will not change." This marks his latest effort to strengthen grassroots connections since his 2012 visit to Iowa, where he first cultivated relationships with local agricultural communities.
The Lunar New Year greeting arrives as cultural diplomacy gains renewed attention in international relations. Analysts suggest such personal gestures help maintain crucial communication channels between the world's two largest economies during periods of geopolitical complexity.
Residents of Iowa who received the card told local media they appreciated the annual tradition, which began during Xi's time as provincial leader in China. The exchange highlights how subnational relationships continue serving as stabilizers in broader China-U.S. relations.
