Tourism and Technology Could Help Boost China's Image in US, Survey Shows
SCMP · 1 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
A survey conducted by researchers at Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou has identified tourism and technology as key areas where China could enhance its public image in the United States. The study, published in the Chinese-language journal Global Communication, found that despite increasing media focus on concepts such as decoupling and de-risking, American respondents still held favourable views of China's global standing and contributions.
Key Points
- Researchers from Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou surveyed American attitudes toward China, finding that global influence scored highest at 4.38 out of 5, followed by science and technology achievements at 3.59 and higher education at 3.56
- Many respondents believed China was contributing to global peace, stability and governance, leading researchers to recommend that Beijing highlight its role in UN peacekeeping missions, climate change efforts, and international aid
- The study emphasised the need for greater transparency and openness to directly address misunderstandings and scepticism in international media
- American respondents showed high levels of interest in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Tibet, topics typically covered by Western media through lenses of human rights, separatism, environment and cultural preservation
- The researchers noted that diverse perspectives on areas with large ethnic minorities should be more actively promoted to international audiences
Why It Matters
The survey findings suggest that Beijing's public diplomacy efforts could benefit from focusing on tangible areas of cooperation rather than abstract political messaging, potentially creating space for improved bilateral relations amid ongoing tensions over trade, technology and regional security issues .
The survey findings suggest that Beijing's public diplomacy efforts could benefit from focusing on tangible areas of cooperation rather than abstract political messaging, potentially creating space for improved bilateral relations amid ongoing tensions over trade, technology and regional security issues .