The Institute of International Studies at Fudan University recently released a report titled Envisioning A New Pattern of Cultural Diplomacy: A Study on the Mechanism of China-foreign Cultural and Educational Exchanges.

According to the report, cultural diplomacy is about genuine cross-civilizational dialogues, mutual understanding, and lasting friendships between different countries and people. To a certain extent, most people gain positive experiences from and develop favorable views on other countries through cultural and educational exchanges. In addition, cultural diplomacy helps to resolve latent tensions and disputes between countries, safeguarding international relations from deleterious impacts of unexpected events. 
 

The report indicates that cultural and educational exchanges have been a crucial frontier of China’s diplomatic policy for the past decade. Along with mutual trust between governments and transnational economic cooperation, cultural diplomacy forms cornerstone of China-foreign relations. With long-term benefits in mind, it is visionary and strategic in nature. People-to-people exchanges help to build favorable impression, mutual understanding and tolerance between nations. That might bring positive influence to government decisions, according to the report.  
 

The report recommends three approaches to improving China-foreign cultural diplomacy. First, the government should build a diplomatic mechanism that transcends ministries to coordinate actions of each sector, as well as plan and oversee exchange activities in different spheres.
 

Second, the improvement should begin with top-level design. The top decision-making body should use the advantage of rational planning to efficiently allocate the country’s cultural and educational resources. Third, concerned parties need to bring more creative ideas in designing and implementing exchange programs.  

Feng Daimei is a reporter at the Chinese Social Sciences Today.