In recent years, China has strengthened cooperation with the West to tackle serious global health issues. (Photo : www.theguardian.com)
Experts interpret Chinese First Lady Peng Liyuan's English speeches at the United Nations headquarters in New York on Saturday as her new focus to enhance China's soft power.
"In China, the Spring Bud Education Program has helped over three million girls return to school. Many of them have completed college and are doing well at work," said Peng in her speech delivered in English at the high-level meeting of the Global Education First Initiative as special envoy for the advancement of girls' and women's education of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Peng also attended the opening ceremony of a meeting for the "Every Woman, Every Child" global movement on Saturday, as the World Health Organization (WHO) goodwill ambassador for HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis. She was invited by U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
Peng displayed charm and her pivotal diplomatic role with her two speeches delivered in English, experts added.
Peng's U.N. speeches have attracted a lot of attention in China, generating discussions on social media. Thousands of netizens have viewed her video and praised her on Sina Weibo.
"Gorgeous and elegant, Peng is absolutely the best name card for China," said one user on his Sina Weibo account.
"Making a speech in English would strike a chord with people from other countries," said Steven Dong, professor from the Academy of Media and Public Affairs at the Communication University of China.
"Unlike previous Chinese first ladies, Peng, who is a famous folk singer in China, has become more prominent in Chinese diplomacy, which can improve China's global image," added Dong.
Peng was first presented before the international stage as the Chinese first lady when she accompanied her husband on a state visit to Russia in 2013. She has since been known for her own unique style of diplomacy, making use of her influence as a folk singer to participate in programs for public good.
Among her eight visits with President Xi Jinping, Peng participated in at least 11 activities that involve children and schools, including meeting children with AIDS at an adoption center during a visit to the Republic of Congo in 2013.
Peng has also showcased her other talents on several occasions, like her knowledge of Chinese calligraphy and traditional embroidery.
"Promoting the traditional arts and culture is a natural fit for Peng, which makes her quite unique among other first ladies," said Dong.
