From Feb 7 to 12, the student art troupe from the High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China, organized by the China Arts and Entertainment Group Limited (CAEG), visited the Midwest of the United States. They held multiple "Joyous Spring Festival" performances at relevant schools and city theaters in Minneapolis, Minnesota; Mason City, Iowa; and Chicago, Illinois. Thousands of local students, teachers, and citizens attended the live performances.

The art troupe presented a delightful program, featuring lively traditional dances, ensemble performances of traditional Chinese musical instruments, powerful gymnastics, as well as impressive martial arts demonstrations, all of which were enthusiastically appreciated by the audience.

Consul General Zhao Jian attended the performances of the art troupe in Mason City and Chicago. In his address, he expressed gratitude to the meticulous arrangements made by local schools and community organizations for the visit of the art troupe. He also thanked the school for bringing wonderful artistic performances and best wishes for the Year of the Dragon to students and citizens in the Midwest. He stated that during the meeting of the leaders of China and the United States in San Francisco in November last year, both sides agreed to enhance exchanges in education, culture, sports among young people. The visit of the art troupe not only brought splendid artistic performances to the American audience but also conveyed the friendly sentiments of the Chinese people toward the American people. He hoped that young people from both countries would further strengthen exchanges, continuously enhance mutual understanding, and build a broad bridge of friendship between the two countries.

Ryan Castle, principal of Mason City High School, and Rickey Harris, principal of Whitney Young High School,attended the art troupe's performances and delivered enthusiastic speeches.

During their visit, members of the art troupe engaged in exchange and celebration activities with students from sister schools in the area, fostering mutual understanding and making many new friends. In Mason City, students from the High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China also participated in the "Celebrating the Lunar New Year with Old Friends in Mason City" event, performing spectacular acts and receiving a warm welcome from Ambassador Terry Branstad, Mrs. Branstad, and other "old friends" from Iowa, as well as the guests present.