Dylan Loh Ming Hui, Assistant Professor at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, discusses his book on China's assertive diplomacy with Jude Blanchette. They explore China's Foreign Ministry complexities, qualitative ethnographic research on diplomatic practices, the Ministry's powers in decision-making, and the influence of technology on their communication strategies.
China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) is central in coordinating and shaping China's assertive diplomatic strategies.
Technology, especially social media, has enhanced China's diplomatic communication, showcasing offensive and defensive approaches in shaping global perceptions.
Deep dives
Exploring China's Diplomatic Evolution
This podcast episode delves into the evolution of China's diplomatic landscape, discussing the rising importance of understanding the country's governance structure. The conversation between Jude Blanchet and Dylan Lo highlights the latter's book, 'China's Rising Foreign Ministry,' focusing on assertive diplomacy and foreign ministry practices. Lo's journey into studying China's politics began with encounters with Chinese representatives during various meetings, sparking his interest in the complexities of Chinese politics and diplomacy.
Analyzing Motivations for the Book
Lo's motivation for his book stemmed from a gap in academic attention towards China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in the existing literature. He aimed to fill this void by conducting qualitative research, interviews with Chinese and non-Chinese diplomats, and scrutinizing MFA's coordinating role in China's assertive behaviors. By exploring the significance of MFA's influence and decision-making processes, Lo sheds light on the intricacies of China's rising global prominence.
Understanding MFA's Role in Decision-Making
The podcast discusses how the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) is increasingly playing a central role in coordinating China's foreign policy actions. Lo emphasizes the MFA's influence in implementing, advising, and coordinating foreign policies, showcasing its growing stature and impact in domestic and international contexts. The narrative challenges misconceptions about MFA's passive role, underscoring its significant powers in shaping China's diplomatic strategies.
Impact of Technology on Chinese Diplomacy
The conversation also delves into the impact of technology on China's diplomatic strategies, particularly focusing on MFA's adept use of social media platforms like Twitter. Technology has enabled Chinese diplomats to amplify their messages and shape information environments effectively, reflecting a blend of offensive and defensive techniques in foreign policy communication. Lo highlights the increasing sophistication of China's information ecosystem and its strategic deployment in shaping global perceptions.