On the afternoon of July 17 (Thursday), Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, attended and delivered a speech at the “The Bond with Kuliang: China-U.S. Youth Friendship Event 2025” held in Beijing.
Elyn MacInnis, founder of the Friends of Kuliang, and Luca Berrone, a friend of President Xi from Iowa, shared stories about Kuliang, people-to-people exchanges between China and the U.S., and their experiences with local cooperation. They expressed deep affection for China and gratitude for President Xi’s commitment to youth in both nations. They reaffirmed their dedication to promoting China-U.S. friendship.
American youth representatives attending the event shared their experiences from their visit to China. They expressed their willingness to serve as ambassadors of friendship for the new generation and to continue writing the inspiring story of China-U.S. relations.
In her speech, Peng Liyuan remarked that the century-old story of Kuliang and President Xi’s over 40-year friendship with his old friends in Iowa stand as powerful symbols of China-U.S. friendship. While the two countries differ in history, culture, and language, the Chinese and American people both cherish family, and they are kind, friendly, and hardworking—fully capable of being good friends and partners to one another.
Last year, President Xi proposed that 50,000 young Americans come to study in China over the next five years. Since then, many young Americans have visited China, gaining first-hand insights into the country, making new friends, and opening a new chapter in China-U.S. friendship.
Peng emphasized that youth are the future of a nation and the future of friendship. She called on young people to carry forward the legacy of China-U.S. friendship and become ambassadors of peace and goodwill.
Source: Shishir, Alim, and Shuyei, China Media Grou.