Books: How China has expanded influence overseas

In new book, author delves into Beijing's focus on universities and the diaspora, as well as global media

International students from China prepare to take photos in their graduation gowns at the University of Sydney in July 2020. Chinese studying abroad have increasingly been used as tools of sharp power, which is wielded more clandestinely, than soft power. © Reuters

JOSHUA KURLANTZICK

February 4, 2023 08:00 JST

China has long tried to influence other countries. As Beijing has become more influential in international affairs and President Xi Jinping has stepped up China's efforts to promote its model of development, Beijing has adopted a more assertive diplomatic and military strategy in concerted efforts to become the dominant power in Asia, and perhaps the world in the long run. As part of this strategy, it has dramatically increased efforts to wield influence within the politics and societies of other countries.