China's First Lady Hosts German Counterpart

China's first lady Peng Liyuan hosted her German counterpart, Elke Buedenbender, in Beijing on Friday. The meeting was part of an effort to foster closer bilateral ties between the two countries.

Peng Liyuan and Elke Buedenbender, the wife of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, had a tea reception in Beijing. This event showcased China's soft power and highlighted the cooperation between China and Germany in areas including education and culture.

The cooperation between China and Germany in education and culture is a significant aspect of their bilateral relationship. Peng Liyuan stressed the importance of this cooperation and expressed hope for people from China and Germany to 'visit each other more often, continuously deepen mutual understanding and foster closer people-to-people bonds'.

## Why it matters The meeting between Peng Liyuan and Elke Buedenbender is significant as it highlights the importance of people-to-people diplomacy in fostering closer bilateral ties. By showcasing China's soft power and cooperation in education and culture, China aims to strengthen its relationship with Germany and promote mutual understanding between the two countries.

The outcome of this meeting is likely to have a positive impact on the bilateral relationship between China and Germany. As the two countries continue to cooperate in areas including education and culture, they can expect to see deeper mutual understanding and closer people-to-people bonds.