UK and China celebrate the 55th anniversary of ping-pong diplomacy in London(1/4)

Sun Yingsha of China (right) interacts with participants through a table tennis match at the event which marks the 55th anniversary of ping-pong diplomacy in London, May 11, 2026. (Photo: China News Service/Ouyang Kaiyu)

China and the UK marked the 55th anniversary of ping-pong diplomacy at a special event in London on Monday, celebrating the role table tennis has played in strengthening ties between the two countries.

People pose for a group photo at the event which marks the 55th anniversary of ping-pong diplomacy in London, May 11, 2026. (Photo: China News Service/Ouyang Kaiyu)

China's Ambassador to the UK Zheng Zeguang delivers a speech at the event which marks the 55th anniversary of ping-pong diplomacy in London, May 11, 2026. (Photo: China News Service/Ouyang Kaiyu)

Chinese and British representatives exchange gifts at the event which marks the 55th anniversary of ping-pong diplomacy in London, May 11, 2026. (Photo: China News Service/Ouyang Kaiyu)