Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, accompanied by Thai Prime Minister's wife Naraporn Chan-o-cha, watches a display of traditional Thai craftwork at the Arts of the Kingdom Museum in Ayutthaya, Thailand, Nov. 18, 2022. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)
BANGKOK, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, together with the spouses of other leaders and representatives attending the 29th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting, visited here on Friday the Arts of the Kingdom Museum in Ayutthaya at the invitation of Thai Prime Minister's wife Naraporn Chan-o-cha.
Peng Liyuan was warmly welcomed at the entrance of the museum as she arrived and accompanied during her visit by Naraporn.
On display were important celebratory artwork of the Thai royal family and traditional Thai craftwork. Peng Liyuan paused at times and listened to the narration of the guide and praised the craftsmanship.
Peng expressed her appreciation upon learning that the museum was founded by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit to promote Thai's traditional craftsmanship and help the impoverished families in Thailand's remote areas. She added that China has a similar idea of helping impoverished people in less developed areas.
Knowing that the craftwork made by out-of-school children was on sale, Peng Liyuan bought some to support the anti-poverty project of the Thai royal family.
A lotus-flower-shaped candlestick captured Peng Liyuan's attention during the tour. She explained that the Chinese people love lotus flowers as they remain pure and untainted though growing out of mud, embodying qualities of purity and nobleness. Naraporn agreed with Peng, saying in Thailand, lotus flowers are often used for Buddhist devotion. Responding with delight, Peng said this is a vivid reflection that the Chinese and Thai people share similar values.
During the visit, Peng Liyuan had cordial exchanges with the spouses of the leaders attending the APEC meeting, and took group photos with them. ■
