Wonder women sound out

Venezuela's Ambassador Rocio Maneiro Gonzalez and Counselor Le Aimei appreciate the erhu, a two-stringed Chinese instrument. Jiang Dong / China Daily

More than 100 female diplomatic envoys to China, foreign envoys' wives and international organizations' women delegates stationed in China gathered at the National Center for the Performing Arts on Feb 27 to enjoy Chinese folk music and a lecture to celebrate the upcoming International Women's Day.

"Music is a language that transcends boundaries," says the organizer, Counselor Le Aimei, who is Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi's wife.

"It's not only an important culture carrier but also a bridge to deepen friendship among people all over the world."

She has organized similar activities promoting Chinese culture to celebrate the day for several years, including Chinese porcelain and photography exhibitions.

"It's a nice way to present different parts of Chinese culture," Susan Kim-Chomicka, the wife of Poland's ambassador, says.

"I really enjoy myself because I like music very much. Poland is very famous for its music as well. I can know more about Chinese culture and its similarities to Polish culture."

Venezuela's Ambassador Rocio Maneiro Gonzalez says the festival is held annually to celebrate women's achievements throughout history and across nations, and people should continue to cooperate to advance gender equality.

"It is important to remember that women are not a minority and not a vulnerable group," she says.

"Women represent one half of humanity."