On January 28, 2026, Bai Yuzhen, Director-General of the Ningxia Foreign Affairs Office (NXFAO), attended the 2026 New Year Gathering for International Friends in China upon invitation by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC). This event marked the CPAFFC’s first New Year gathering specifically organized for the international community in Beijing. Nearly 120 international friends from 45 countries gathered with Chinese representatives to welcome the Year of the Horse and celebrate the bonds of friendship.

During the event, several wineries and enterprises of Ningxia, including the Ningxia State Farm Winery, Helanhong Winery, and Jade Vineyard, showcased nearly 30 wines with facilitation from the NXFAO and the Administrative Committee of Ningxia (Helan Mountains’ Eastern Foot) Wine Industry Park. Through product displays, wine region introductions, and on-site tastings, they highlighted Ningxia’s “purple signature,” supporting the development of the region’s specialty and competitive industries and introducing more of Ningxia’s premium products to diplomatic platforms. Chinese and international guests spoke highly of the wines from the eastern foot of the Helan Mountains, praising their vibrant fruit aromas, refined tannins, and lingering finish, noting their distinct character and unique appeal.

The international guests also enjoyed traditional Chinese performances such as Shaanbei storytelling, ancient magic tricks, and diabolo spinning. They tasted freshly-made Beijing specialties like crispy candy, pastries, and tanghulu (candied hawthorns), experiencing firsthand the unique charm of Chinese culture. Additionally, Canadian performer Mark Henry Rowswell—known to Chinese audiences as Dashan, American professor Mark Levine, and relatives of some international friends performed poetry recitations, guitar-accompanied singing, and Chinese song choruses, earning enthusiastic applause from all attendees.