Chinese Soft Power Diplomacy: A Case Study of China-Africa Relations

Abstract

China is successfully increasing its influence throughout the globe through its soft power. Africa is also an important continent for China, as it possesses 30% of the world’s mineral reserves. China is using soft power and public diplomacy to establish its prominence in Africa. This study discusses how China is constructing and enhancing its soft power through cultural diplomacy in African countries. Furthermore, the research highlights that Chinese educational initiatives, such as scholarships and training programs, are being used as tools to build and strengthen China’s national interest perspective. The study also examines economic engagement, including trade, investments, aid, and infrastructure development, positioning African countries as supportive allies in the international community. Additionally, the article explains that the Chinese media presence on the African continent projects China’s soft image in the region and counters misinformation about China in Africa. Moreover, the study explores the challenges and limitations China faces in shaping soft power in the region.