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.
Vatican Renews Overtures to China Ahead of Xi’s Italy Visit
By Nicole Winfield
After a breakthrough in China-Vatican relations, speculation is mounting that Xi will meet Pope Francis this week.
Beijing: Dalai Lama’s Reincarnation Must Comply With Chinese Laws
By Charlotte Gao
Dalai Lama says it is possible that his successor might be found in India.
China-El Salvador Relationship Wobbles
By Charlotte Gao
El Salvador President-elect Nayib Bukele criticized China publicly amid his U.S. visit.
China’s Ivory Ban: A Work in Progress
By Kevin T. Bielicki
China’s ban will not be enough to save the world's elephants if it does not address its booming illegal ivory trade.
Taiwan Is Swept by the ‘Han Wave’
By Nick Aspinwall
The populist mayor of Kaohsiung is a cultural phenomenon who looks set to make his presence known in Taiwan’s presidential race.
China’s Double Standard on Terrorism
By Bonnie Girard
While Beijing clamps down on Muslims in its own territory, it provides cover for Pakistan’s support of extremist groups.
Italy’s Risky China Gamble
By Philippe Le Corre and Carlotta Alfonsi
For all the overtures to China that Rome is making, Italy has not yet settled on what kind of relationship it actually wants.
Mapping China's Investments in Europe
By Valbona Zeneli
The last eight years have seen a paradigm shift in Chinese investments in Europe.
China Once Again Blocks India's Bid to List JeM Founder as Global Terrorist
By Shannon Tiezzi
For the fourth time in 10 years, China put a “technical hold” on the proposal to sanction Masood Azhar.
China’s ‘Debt Diplomacy’ Is a Misnomer. Call It ‘Crony Diplomacy.’
By Mark Akpaninyie
The debt trap isn’t a national strategy. Instead, unchecked profit motive is driving Chinese firms to exploit poor nations.
China in Postwar Syria
By Nicholas Lyall
Beijing is set to be a major player as Syria rebuilds – but that includes footing the lion’s share of the bill.
Examining Crime and Terrorism Along China’s Belt and Road
By Philip Dubow
In 2017, I asked if Xi Jinping’s signature strategy was increasing crime and terrorism. Today, are we any closer to an answer?