On August 29, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng and his wife Wang Dan attended the 24th Washington Chinese Cultural Festival, and Ambassador Xie delivered remarks entitled “A Glimpse of China Today, A Memory to Take with You”.

Ambassador Xie said that the festival has become an annual tradition, growing more popular with each passing year. It has become a window into China for the American public and a bridge of friendship between our two peoples. The theme of the festival this year is Experience China. He invited everyone to experience the depth and richness of a civilization spanning five thousand years, to feel the pulse of an innovative and dynamic China, and to experience a China that is open, confident, and welcoming.

Ambassador Xie noted the recent reunion between American teacher Ronald Sakolsky and Chinese desertification-control hero Yin Yuzhen, which has touched people across social media. Their story reminds us that when Chinese and Americans work together, we can make the world a better place. He emphasized that this is a significant year for China-U.S. relations, and called for joint efforts to build more bridges for people-to-people and cultural exchanges, and strengthen the public foundation for a constructive China-U.S. relationship of strategic stability. He hoped more American friends would one day visit China — and turn today’s glimpse into a lasting connection of their own.

The event drew large crowds and was filled with joy and excitement, with vibrant displays of Chinese culture and performances attracting local residents to stop, watch and take part in the activities. Minister Tang Zhiwen of the Chinese Embassy, as well as dignitaries from D.C., Maryland and Virginia, attended the event. Mayor of D.C. Muriel Bowser, Governor of Virginia Abigail Spanberger, Governor of Maryland Wes Moore, Senator Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks, Congresswoman April McClain Delaney and Grace Meng sent congratulatory letters.