Blog
China Power
China's rise inspires a mix of awe, fear and skepticism. But what will its global role be? Are we on the brink of a bipolar world? How will its neighbors respond? Will it all come crashing down? The Diplomat's daily China blog will try to find some answers.
What Agnes Chow’s Case Tells Us About the Rule of Law in Hong Kong
By Eric Lai
The Hong Kong government’s arbitrary use of powers against Chow, who has not yet faced trial, further confirms that politics is above the law.
Where Does China Stand On the Esequibo Question?
By Joseph Bouchard
Given its good relations with both Venezuela and Guyana, Beijing has sought to avoid angering either.
China-EU Summit Reveals a Fundamental Disconnect
By Shannon Tiezzi
The EU sees a relationship in dire need of an overhaul. China thinks everything is just fine.
Is China Open for Business Again?
By Lea Thome
China’s signals that its economy is open for business and tourism are increasingly urgent, but will they be effective?
Facing a Rigged Election, Hong Kongers Are Expected to ‘Lie Flat’
By Michael Mo
Outright calls for a boycott risk legal trouble, but Hong Kongers are not enthused about Sunday's District Council elections.
The Belt and Road Initiative’s Impact Depends on the Recipient Country
By Tola Amusan
The nature of domestic institutions in China’s partners determines whether the BRI actually advances socioeconomic development or simply enriches elites.
Bridging the Narrative Gap in China-US Relations
By Vu Le Thai Hoang and Ngo Di Lan
States regularly tell stories about themselves and how the world works. Chinese and American narratives – including about the Biden-Xi summit – remain at odds.
Silenced in China, Grassroots Activists Commemorate the White Paper Protests Abroad
By Yaqiu Wang
A year after the massive demonstrations against draconian lockdown rules, participants have an abiding new sense of strength and responsibility.
The Rise and Fall of Confucius Institutes in the US
By Bonnie Girard
Will the controversial Chinese government-funded programs rise again under another name?
How the Taiwan Opposition Alliance Talks Fell Apart
By Brian Hioe
The pan-Blue camp’s attempt to settle on a unity ticket came crashing down last week in an embarrassing televised spectacle.
Xie Zhenhua’s Swan Song Amid the Geopolitics of COP28
By Sacha Shaw
This year’s United Nations climate change conference is expected to be the last for China’s veteran climate envoy.
Major Changes at China’s Foreign Ministry
By KAWASHIMA Shin
A Chinese “diplomat” today is no longer someone who conducts diplomacy, but is rather a faithful envoy who spreads Xi Jinping diplomatic thought to the world.