Publication

This paper examines the main features of and motives behind China’s strategic partnerships, which it contends is a prominent tool in the country’s diplomatic toolkit. The authors first provide an overview of these partnerships, both as expressed by Chinese leaders and in actual practice. They then explore the historical background of this form of diplomacy and suggest the two main motives behind it: to protect the core interests of the country and to establish a better global environment for its rise. Finally, they explore whether this form of diplomacy has been successful for China.