East Asia · 23 September 2026 to 25 September 2026 · 7 headlines · South China Morning Post, AP
Peng Liyuan's US state visit
Chinese first lady Peng Liyuan accompanied President Xi Jinping on his US state visit, drawing media attention for her public image and diplomatic role. She was seen greeting Melania Trump as the Chinese delegation arrived, continuing a rapport the two had previously established. Coverage has also focused on Peng's fashion choices and public persona, which commentators frame as part of China's broader soft-power projection abroad.
As it ran
25 September 2026
- Pitch perfect cultural diplomacy wins heart of China’s first lady Peng Liyuan South China Morning Post
- Melania Trump takes China's first lady on a museum outing that's watched for diplomacy and style AP
24 September 2026
- How Chinese first lady Peng Liyuan is a symbol of China’s fashion soft power South China Morning Post
- Peng Liyuan’s English takes the spotlight in exchange with Melania Trump South China Morning Post
- Peng Liyuan and Melania Trump renew acquaintance as Xi arrives in US South China Morning Post
- Inside Melania Trump and Peng Liyuan’s visit to the Smithsonian’s Peacock Room South China Morning Post
23 September 2026
- China’s first lady Peng Liyuan projects glamour and soft power on world stage South China Morning Post