First Lady Melania Trump joined President Xi Jinping's wife Madame Peng Liyuan for a visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art, marking a significant cultural and diplomatic exchange between the United States and China. Following the opening ceremony for President Xi's arrival at the White House, the two first spouses toured the Peacock Room, admiring its collection of elaborate Chinese Qing dynasty porcelain and viewing the famous James McNeill Whistler painting 'Princess from the Land of Porcelain'.

According to body language expert Judi James, Melania's movements and styling closely mirrored those of Peng throughout the visit, suggesting a sense of respect and possible awe towards the accomplished former opera singer and People's Liberation Army Major General. The pair subsequently toured Gallery 13, which showcases imperial and historical Chinese art from dynasties spanning 1368 to 1912, before watching a performance by 36 students from the Hope Chinese School, during which Peng joined in singing the traditional song 'Jasmine Flower'.