CHINA’S PUBLIC DIPLOMACY GOALS AND INSTRUMENTS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29038/2524-2679-2025-02-186-204Keywords:
China, public diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, economic diplomacy, state image, soft powerAbstract
The article provides a complex analysis of the goals and instruments of public diplomacy of the People’s Republic of China, the reasons for the formation of public diplomacy in China, the motivations for the creation of its three main goals and the instruments by which these goals are achieved. The study out- lines 3 main goals underlying China’s public diplomacy efforts: 1) counterac- ting negative narratives caused by political and historical factors and forming a positive image of China’s foreign policy; 2) creating an image of China as a culturally rich state; 3) forming a positive image of China in partner countries by utilizing economic resources. Each of these goals has been deeply analyzed, taking into account the historical, political, or economic factors that contributed to their development. To achieve these goals, China uses a variety of instruments, some of which were analyzed in the article. These include media and informa- tion campaigns, which play a crucial role in shaping global narratives favorable to China; educational and cultural programs, which contribute to long-term im- pact by promoting awareness of the Chinese language and culture; and economic and infrastructure diplomacy, which serves as a means of strengthening partner- ships between China and partner states and promotes a positive image of China as an economically powerful state. The article discusses the motivations behind China’s public diplomacy strategy, linking it to the country’s broader foreign policy ambitions. The study examines how public diplomacy serves as a means of alleviating skepticism, building trust, and creating a favorable environment for China’s rise. In addition, the study examines the challenges and criticisms that China faces. The article demonstrates a balanced view of the PRC’s public diplomacy, including its positive and negative aspects, if any.
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