Ambassador Xie Feng Highlights Cultural Diplomacy at DC Dragon Boat Festival Event
Chinese Ambassador Xie Feng and his wife join Washington community in heartfelt celebration of the Dragon Boat Festival, strengthening cross-strait ties.
On May 30, 2025, the Chinese Ambassador to the United States, Xie Feng, accompanied by his wife Wang Dan, joined members of the Chinese community from both sides of the Taiwan Strait in the Washington, D.C. area to celebrate the Dragon Boat Festival. The event drew a vibrant crowd eager to partake in festive traditions and reinforce heartfelt connections, with Minister Counselor Qiu Wenxing also among the attendees.
During his remarks at the gathering, Ambassador Xie underscored the theme of unity, stating that Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasized that people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are one family. In a declaration met with warm applause, he asserted, "No force can sever the bonds of blood and kinship that unite us, nor can anyone obstruct the historical trend toward China’s reunification."
The ambassador highlighted the deep ties that bind compatriots across the Strait, noting their shared ancestry, culture, and history. He spoke of a collective responsibility for the welfare of the Chinese nation and a common aspiration for a brighter future, sentiments which resonated with many in attendance.
Addressing recent developments in international relations, Ambassador Xie voiced serious concern over what he described as anti-China forces in the United States who have supported "Taiwan independence" activities, warning that such actions threaten the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait. He further criticized the U.S. government's decision to impose tariffs, arguing that these measures have severely undermined the well-being of people around the world.
Turning to issues affecting Chinese citizens overseas, Ambassador Xie responded to the revocation of visas for Chinese students by the U.S. State Department. He emphasized that the Chinese Embassy had lodged strong representations immediately and would continue to defend the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese students and overseas Chinese.
Reflecting on the cultural significance of the Dragon Boat Festival, Ambassador Xie spoke about the values embodied by the dragon boat race—determination, teamwork, and striving for excellence—qualities he sees as emblematic of the Chinese nation's enduring resilience and unity. "With more than 1.4 billion Chinese people rowing in unison," he declared, "there is no storm we cannot weather, no destination we cannot reach." He encouraged overseas compatriots to draw inspiration from the "dragon boat spirit" and to move forward boldly on the journey toward national reunification and rejuvenation.
