ISLAMABAD: China’s cultural diplomacy is a key aspect of its soft power strategy, aimed at reclaiming its global stature and influence. Since the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, cultural outreach has been a focused effort, leveraging initiatives like Confucius Institutes, cultural exchanges, and media presence to forge stronger international ties.
Under President Xi Jinping, cultural diplomacy has been central to realizing the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation. China’s economic transformation since the 1970s and 1980s has been extraordinary, with economic output per capita surging by around 3,000%.
Abdul Salam Khan, a professor at the Confucius Institute, National University of Modern Languages (NUML), Islamabad, highlighted China’s use of cultural diplomacy to bolster its global influence. He noted the establishment of Confucius Institutes in over 160 countries, cultural exchanges, and educational programs as key factors in spreading Chinese language and culture.
China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) exemplifies its economic strategy, aiming to enhance trade and investment through infrastructure development across Asia, Europe, and Africa. Over 150 countries have signed BRI agreements, promoting cultural exchange and cooperation.
China’s global media presence, tourism, and sister city partnerships further facilitate trade, investment, and economic collaboration. Its growing influence in global cinema and art projects its culture and values on the world stage, generating revenue and promoting Chinese brands.
Other countries, such as South Korea, Japan, and India, have observed China’s approach and adopted similar strategies to enhance their own global influence. Pakistan can learn from China’s success in cultural diplomacy, focusing on economic growth, technological advancement, and strategic partnerships to enhance its global standing and drive innovation.
