China is becoming increasingly powerful in the international arena, both economically and militarily. Beyond the expansion of their economic influence, China has begun to promote its soft power, also known as cultural diplomacy. Cultural diplomacy is the use of cultural symbols and activities to strengthen a nation’s positive image and project its interests in the international arena. Cultural diplomacy is a key component of China’s foreign policy that is aimed at promoting a positive image of the country in the eyes of other countries, as well as spreading Chinese culture across the globe.
What is Cultural Diplomacy?
Cultural diplomacy is the use of cultural symbols, events, organizations and activities to convey a nation’s values, aspirations and identity to foreign audiences. This is done in order to foster mutual understanding, bridge divides and create goodwill amongst various nations. It is also used to influence foreign opinions and counter negative stereotypes. Cultural diplomacy is a form of non-military power and an increasingly important tool of international relations.
China’s Cultural Diplomacy Strategy
The Chinese government has recognized the importance of cultural diplomacy in their current overall diplomatic strategy. In their 14th Five Year Plan, they have set out a plan to form ‘five major networks’ which essentially includes expanding their cultural diplomacy activities. China’s cultural diplomacy is at the forward edge of its external outlook, a way to build alliances and good relations through appeals to common heritage.
Goals and Objectives
China’s primary goals for cultural diplomacy include:
• Building better relations with other countries by highlighting common culture, heritage, and interests.
• Projecting an idealized version of China and its culture to foreign audiences, emphasizing traditional Chinese philosophies and values.
• Promoting an inclusive view of culture in which many cultures are accepted and celebrated.
• Increasing positive sentiment toward China and its government.
• Countering negative pressures and stereotypes about China.
• Increasing the appeal of China’s culture and institutions to foreign audiences.
Methods
China has established a number of methods to further its cultural diplomacy agenda, some of which are listed below:
• Scholarship programmes: China has been offering scholarships to students from other countries to study in Chinese universities, providing them access to traditional Chinese philosophies and values.
• Confucius Institutes: These are schools and language centers designed to promote the Chinese language and culture in other countries.
• Cultural Tours: China has also been taking part in cultural exchanges and delegations, such as the Silk Road Cultural Exchange to promote Chinese culture and its image abroad.
• Cultural Exhibitions: China has been organizing cultural exhibitions around the world to showcase Chinese art and culture.
• Media Outreach: China is also partnering with various media outlets, such as the Chinese state television agency CCTV, to broadcast Chinese stories and cultural projects globally.
Impact
China’s cultural diplomacy has had far-reaching influence and impact in both the international arena and at home. China’s image has improved as a result of its cultural diplomacy, especially in countries that have strong cultural and economic ties with it. This has resulted in improved cooperation between China and its partner countries. On the domestic front, China’s cultural diplomacy efforts have resulted in increasing respect for Chinese culture and values by other nations, which in turn has led to a greater sense of self-esteem among Chinese citizens.
China’s soft power initiatives are only the beginning of what’s sure to be a powerful next phase in the country’s development. As it strives for even more global recognition and respect, there’s no doubt that China’s cultural diplomacy strategy will continue to play an important role. Cultural diplomacy will be an effective way for China to reach out to the world and make its case to gain the support it needs to become a leader on the international stage.
