Beijing, China — Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, welcomed Rosangela Lula da Silva, wife of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, to the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) on Tuesday. The visit marked a significant step in enhancing cultural ties between the two nations.
As they toured the iconic NCPA, often dubbed the “Egg” for its distinctive architecture, the first ladies admired the venue’s stunning design and explored the “Stage of Glory” exhibition, which highlights the center’s achievements. The NCPA has played a pivotal role in fostering China-Brazil and China-Latin America cultural exchanges in recent years.
The duo learned about the NCPA’s efforts in promoting international cultural exchange and making art accessible to the public. Notably, in 2023, the NCPA launched its first South American cultural exchange tour, visiting Brazil and Argentina. A special concert was held at the NCPA in 2024 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Brazil.
Deepening Cultural Connections
Peng Liyuan emphasized the rich cultural heritage of both China and Brazil, noting the active people-to-people and cultural exchanges in recent years. “Mutual understanding and friendship between our peoples have deepened,” she remarked.
The cultural exchange initiatives between the two countries have been diverse, including the China-Latin America Cultural Festival and collaborative film programs among BRICS nations. Brazilian cultural icons like capybaras, bossa nova music, samba, and capoeira have gained popularity in China. Meanwhile, traditional Chinese celebrations like the Spring Festival and cultural treasures such as traditional Chinese medicine are increasingly appreciated in Brazil.
In a testament to growing ties, the city of Rio de Janeiro designated September 28, recognized as Confucius’ birthday, as Mandarin Day in 2022. Additionally, the Spring Festival has been officially recognized as a public holiday in the state of Rio de Janeiro.
Looking Ahead
The 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2024 saw further strengthening of bilateral exchanges. China and Brazil signed an agreement to issue 10-year multiple-entry visas for their citizens, facilitating business, tourism, and family visits. Air China resumed its Beijing-Madrid-Sao Paulo route in April, enhancing connectivity between the nations.
Embratur, the Brazilian Tourist Board, reported that 76,000 Chinese tourists visited Brazil in 2024, marking a 79% increase compared to the previous year. To continue this momentum, the upcoming China-Brazil Year of Culture will focus on cooperation in culture, education, tourism, and media, as well as promoting personnel exchanges.
Peng expressed hope that both countries would maintain this positive trajectory and bring their peoples closer together. Appreciating the visit, Rosangela Lula da Silva praised China’s development and rich culture. She expressed her commitment to actively promoting people-to-people and cultural exchanges, contributing to the deepening friendship between Brazil and China.
