The legendary American diplomat and former Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger, visited Beijing this week, garnering significant attention from international media and the Chinese public. On Thursday (20th), Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Kissinger at Diaoyutai State Guesthouse and hosted a grand banquet to commemorate Dr. Kissinger’s 100th birthday.
Footage from the event showcased the exquisite table arrangements, with a central display of flowers representing mountains, rivers, grasslands, and an arch bridge symbolizing Kissinger’s role as a bridge in Sino-US relations, reflecting his significant contributions to the friendship between China and the United States. The table also featured models of pine cranes for longevity, peaches for celebration, and Nanshan Shouxing, a god of longevity. Even the knots used for tablecloths were crafted from sandalwood.
Apart from the dining table, the rest of the venue was also tastefully decorated. A side table in the banquet hall was adorned with various fruits symbolizing longevity and good fortune, while a Qing Dynasty-era Jingtailan (cloisonné) porcelain vase with peach motifs was placed on the floor.
During the meeting with Kissinger, Xi Jinping remarked that Dr. Kissinger had just celebrated his 100th birthday and had visited China over a hundred times, making this particular visit of special significance.
Xi mentioned that 52 years ago, China and the United States were at a critical turning point, and with the remarkable strategic vision of Chairman Mao Zedong, Premier Zhou Enlai, President Richard Nixon, and Dr. Kissinger, the correct choice of cooperation between China and the US was made, initiating the normalization of Sino-US relations. This decision has not only benefited both countries but also changed the world. Xi praised the Chinese people for valuing loyalty and friendship, stating, “We will not forget old friends,” and expressing gratitude for Kissinger’s historic contributions to the development of Sino-US relations and the enhancement of friendship between the two nations.
Kissinger expressed his honor to visit China and thanked the Chinese side for arranging the meeting at Building No. 5 of Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, which marked his first encounter with Chinese leaders. He emphasized that the relationship between the two countries is crucial for world peace and progress in human society.