In some countries, an ornamental key - the 'Key to the City' - is presented to esteemed visitors, residents, or others whom the city wishes to honor. This practice is a variation on the Freedom of the City tradition, and has a similar symbolic meaning; evoking medieval walled cities, the gates of which would be guarded during the day and locked at night, the key symbolizes the freedom of the recipient to enter and leave the city at will, as a trusted friend of city residents.
Let us to see which cities have presented keys to President Xi Jinping.
Prague
Visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) is presented with the key to Prague March 29, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua] |