On March 20, 2026, a ceremonial event dedicated to International Women’s Day was held at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Russian Federation. The celebration brought together representatives of business, cultural, and public circles from both countries. Guests enjoyed a small exhibition, a musical program, and warm greetings from official representatives.
Opening the evening, Zhang Hanhui, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Russian Federation, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the special role of women in the modern world and in the development of bilateral relations.
“Dear friends, today we have gathered here to wholeheartedly congratulate you, the beautiful half of humanity, on this bright spring holiday — International Women’s Day. On this day, I want to say to you the warmest and most heartfelt words. You are spring in its purest form,” the diplomat began.
According to him, women are not only guardians of the family hearth but also a vital driving force of social development. “You are the sun that warms not only homes and families but entire nations with your wisdom and care,” Zhang Hanhui emphasized.
A special part of the Chinese ambassador’s speech was devoted to Russian-Chinese relations, which, he noted, are entering a new stage of development. He recalled significant anniversaries and pointed out the contribution of women to strengthening bilateral dialogue: “Women of both countries make an invaluable contribution to the development of China-Russia ties. They are the invisible yet strong threads that connect our societies, overcoming distances and differences.”
Veronika Nikishina, Director General of the Russian Export Center, also delivered a congratulatory address. She thanked the Chinese side for the invitation and emphasized the unifying significance of the holiday.
“This day embodies respect, equal opportunities, and the creative force that drives the world forward for both Russian and Chinese society,” she noted.
Nikishina pointed out that the most important foundation for cooperation between the countries is mutual understanding of cultures: “The strength of the good and honest relations between our countries is born primarily in art, in understanding and mutual appreciation between our cultures.” She added that it is precisely through humanitarian and cultural contacts that a solid foundation for economic and strategic partnership is formed: “In the constant search for common ground, mutual trust is born, which becomes the foundation for further development.”
A rich cultural program created a festive atmosphere. Both traditional Russian and Chinese songs were performed on stage, symbolizing mutual respect and interest in each other’s cultures. Guests also had the opportunity to view a small thematic exhibition reflecting the role of women in history and modernity.
Invitation for the International Women’s Union: Dialogue in a Warm Atmosphere
Among the honored guests at the event was Alfiya Amirova, President of the Regional Public Organization “International Women’s Union.” She was joined by Marat Shakirzyanov, Editor‑in‑Chief of the online publication “Embassy Life,” who shared the honor of representing the Union.
For Alfiya Ravilyevna, this evening was not only an opportunity to congratulate the wonderful women on the spring holiday but also a wonderful platform to meet with long‑standing friends and partners. In a warm, almost family‑like atmosphere, she spoke with the spouse of the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China, discussing the importance of women’s diplomacy in strengthening bilateral ties. During the conversation, Alfiya Amirova spoke about the Union’s key projects aimed at developing international humanitarian and cultural cooperation, emphasizing that such initiatives are becoming an important bridge between nations.
Particularly valuable were the meetings with representatives of the community of spouses of Russian diplomats – women whose activities are inseparably linked to maintaining interstate dialogue. The exchange of experience, warm words of support, and new acquaintances all became vivid confirmation that women’s diplomacy continues to play a key role in bringing cultures closer together.
“It was a wonderful evening, filled with sincerity, beauty, and mutual respect. I would like to express my deep gratitude to His Excellency Mr. Zhang Hanhui, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China, and to his wife for their warm welcome and for allowing us to be part of this celebration. Such meetings inspire new projects and strengthen the belief that the dialogue of hearts is the best foundation for lasting relations between countries,” noted Alfiya Amirova.
The evening concluded with the presentation of commemorative souvenirs to all the invited women. The warm, almost family‑like atmosphere of the event once again reminded us that Russia and China continue to find more and more points of convergence, including through the efforts and talents of women.
The International Women’s Union expresses its sincere gratitude to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Russian Federation for the opportunity to be part of this significant event and for the high appreciation of the organization’s work. Together, we will continue to build bridges of friendship and cooperation, drawing on the best traditions of respect, mutual understanding, and creation.