The 2025 Crabapple Gala and Crabapple Poetry Party, sponsored by the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation (SCLF) and supported by the Xicheng District People's Government of Beijing Municipality, were held at the Former Residence of Soong Ching Ling in Beijing on April 7.

Ambassadors and representatives of international organizations from over 40 countries, alongside more than 200 attendees, including officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), participated in the event to celebrate cultural exchanges and global friendship.

Guests attend the 2025 Crabapple Gala and Crabapple Poetry Party at the Former Residence of Soong Ching Ling, Beijing, April 7, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Soong Ching Ling Foundation]

Li Bin, chairperson of the SCLF, emphasized the role of the annual event in promoting cultural exchange. She noted that the event brought together international and domestic guests to enjoy the flowers, while appreciating the charm of Chinese culture and the vibrant cultures of different countries.

"The China Soong Ching Ling Foundation is committed to strengthening communication, expanding cooperation and advancing cultural exchanges," she said. "We aim to facilitate people-to-people connections and contribute to the development of national relations, ultimately working toward building a community with a shared future for mankind."

Jürg Burri, ambassador of Switzerland to China, stated in his speech that the event embodies openness, inclusiveness, mutual respect and friendship between countries and peoples.

He highlighted that this year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Switzerland, and noted that his country is always willing to be China's preferred partner and its gateway to the European market. 

Artist Ding Jie, SCLF chairperson Li Bin and Swiss ambassador Jürg Burri, pose for a photo on stage at the opening of the event, Beijing, April 7, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Soong Ching Ling Foundation]

Other foreign guests in attendance also praised the event as well as the contributions made by Soong Ching Ling and the foundation.

"The planning, setting and presentation are all fantastic," said Pakistani Ambassador to China Khalil Ur Rahman Hashmi, when speaking about the event. He further elaborated on the importance of the poetry aspect, explaining that it showcased the diversity of language, expressions and emotions, and highlighted its role in bringing people together and enhancing understanding.

Beate Trankmann, resident representative of UNDP China, commended Soong Ching Ling's advocacy for women's participation in social and political life.

"I think her mission in life remains very important, especially in this time and age, in a tech-dominated world," Trankmann noted.

This year's Crabapple Gala also featured interactive activities showcasing China's traditional culture and intangible cultural heritage, including calligraphy, painting, tea art and dough figure-making. With flowers as a symbol, foreign guests gathered to celebrate the legacy of traditional Chinese culture, strengthen cultural exchange and build lasting friendships across borders.

Foreign guests watch dough figure-making at the 2025 Crabapple Gala, Beijing, April 7, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Soong Ching Ling Foundation]

A foreign guest posts customized postcards at the 2025 Crabapple Gala, Beijing, April 7, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Soong Ching Ling Foundation]