（Source: Consulate General of China in New York）
On February 29, the Consulate General of China in New York jointly hosted a Zhengzhou-themed promotion event with the Zhengzhou Municipal People's Government. Consul General Huang Ping, Zhengzhou Vice Mayor Chen Hongmin, U.S.-China Green Foundation Vice Chairman and former U.S. Ambassador to Singapore Richard Adelman, and National Committee on U.S.-China Relations Senior Director for Local Cooperation Jessica Bai delivered remarks. Over 120 attendees included Zhengzhou Municipal Government Deputy Secretary-General Wang Fengxia, NCUSCR Senior Program Officer Ni Rong, U.S.-China Public Affairs Association President Teng Shaojun, U.S.-China Friendship Association President Zhang Jinping, U.S.-China Business Travel Association President Zhang Wenlong, local community leaders, Zhengzhou delegation members, and consular officials.
Consul General Huang Ping noted that Zhengzhou would host promotion events in three U.S. cities and become the second Chinese city to participate in the 195-year-old Philadelphia Flower Show. "As the ancient saying goes, 'He who controls Central China controls the nation' - investing in Zhengzhou is a wise choice," he emphasized. Highlighting Central China as the cradle of Chinese civilization, Huang stressed that understanding Zhengzhou deepens appreciation for China. With its large young population and innovative spirit, Zhengzhou offers boundless business opportunities.
Huang emphasized that U.S.-China relations stand at a critical crossroads. Both nations must implement the "San Francisco Vision" to promote healthy, stable bilateral ties. "The hope for U.S.-China relations lies with the people, the foundation in civil society, the future in youth, and the vitality in local exchanges," he stated. Noting the current "favorable conditions" for people-to-people exchanges - including simplified Chinese visa applications, reduced visa fees, and expected expansion to 100 weekly direct flights between China and the U.S. by late March - Huang called on attendees to strengthen civil friendships, cultural exchanges, and mutual understanding.
Vice Mayor Chen Hongmin highlighted Zhengzhou's status as a cradle of Chinese civilization, rich in cultural tourism resources including the world-renowned Shaolin Kung Fu. He emphasized Zhengzhou's efforts to tell its stories through industry-academia-research collaboration, museum clusters, and historical sites, while leveraging kung fu as a global brand. As a major Chinese industrial base with superior transportation and advanced manufacturing, Chen said Zhengzhou welcomes global visitors with its unique blend of history and modern vitality.
Richard Adelman remarked that the U.S.-China leaders' San Francisco meeting had "reset" bilateral relations, establishing a positive tone and bridging peoples' connections. He praised Zhengzhou's historical depth and dynamic development, stressing that subnational exchanges are crucial for improving U.S.-China ties. Adelman called for strengthened local interactions and people-to-people engagement.
Jessica Bai noted that the NCUSCR has long promoted U.S.-China relations, including facilitating early U.S. governor and mayor delegations to China. Even during bilateral tensions, she said U.S. states and cities maintained interest in engaging China, expressing hope for more Chinese provincial visits to deepen civil cooperation.
The event featured cultural performances including a Shaolin Kung Fu extravaganza by young performers from the New York Shaolin Temple Martial Arts Center, a Yu Opera excerpt of "Hua Mulan" celebrating female heroism, a violin concerto of "Butterfly Lovers," and a sleeve dance showcasing traditional Chinese artistry. Attendees sampled Zhengzhou specialties like Songyang Shaolin Crispy Cakes and Persimmon Frost Candy, while watching live intangible cultural heritage demonstrations of paper-cutting and dough sculpture.
The three-hour event concluded in a warm, friendly atmosphere, with guests commending the program. Media outlets including Xinhua News Agency, China News Service, CNN, China Press, and World Journal covered the event.
