On April 23, the Chinese Embassy in the United States held the “Peking Opera Garden Treasures” event in partnership with “Things to Do DC”. Minister Jing Quan made a welcome speech. Nearly 150 guests from local communities attended the event.

Minister Jing Quan pointed out that Peking Opera is open,  inclusive, vibrant and diverse. It reflects China's moral values, keeping the our national characteristics alive. Nearly a century ago, Chinese Peking Opera master Mei Lanfang brought this art to American stages, captivating audiences and carrying back the goodwill of the American people to China. ‌Great art touches the heart and unites people. We hope all the friends can also feel the friendliness and warmth from Chinese people.

Minister Jing Quan said that last year, the two-way flow of tourists between China and the United States recovered to 3 million, with 100 direct flights per week, but there is still a long way to go compared with the 5.5 million mutual visits per year and 330 direct flights per week before the pandemic. We will find ways to encourage our two countries’ people to visit each other more and enhance mutual understanding and trust. Now China is rolling out policies to facilitate people-to-people exchanges, including 240-hour visa-free transit and instant tax refunds for travelers. Welcome American friends to discover the authentic charm of Chinese culture and experience the vibrant China firsthand!

The DC Beauty of Beijing Opera organized a live display of Peking Opera costumes and makeup, and performed classic pieces such as "Legend of the White Snake", "Best Scholar as Matchmaker" and "Monkey King". The renowned martial actor Xi Zhonglu, who is currently visiting the United States, vividly demonstrates and explains the artistic features and performance techniques of the long-relied and short-fought martial actors. The guests learned water sleeves, stage steps and musical instrument playing, immersing themselves in the charm of Peking Opera. They expressed that cultural exchanges between China and the United States are of great significance and hoped to have the opportunity to visit China to deeply experience traditional Chinese culture.