Peng Liyuan, spouse of Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Brigitte Macron, wife of French President Emmanuel Macron, visited Beijing People's Art Theatre on Thursday, underscoring cultural diplomacy during Macron's state visit to China. The event highlighted shared commitments to artistic exchange between the two nations.
The theatre, renowned for preserving traditional Chinese performing arts, hosted the spouses as they observed rehearsals and engaged with performers. Brigitte Macron, accompanying her husband on his three-day diplomatic trip, expressed admiration for China's efforts to promote cultural heritage through such institutions.
This cultural engagement comes as France and China mark 60 years of formal diplomatic relations in 2025. Analysts note that such soft-power initiatives complement ongoing discussions about economic cooperation and climate action between the two countries.
The Beijing People's Art Theatre, established in 1952, has long served as a bridge for international cultural understanding. Thursday's visit follows recent collaborations between Chinese and French artists, including a joint production scheduled to premiere in Paris next spring.
