Panda Diplomacy

In the realm of international relations, where soft power plays a crucial role in shaping diplomatic ties, China has long mastered the art of Panda Diplomacy.[i] The practice of sending these beloved black and white animals as symbol of friendship and goodwill has been a cornerstone of China’s foreign policy for decades.[ii] As the world navigates through geopolitical tensions and shifting alliances, the resurgence of Panda Diplomacy raises intriguing questions about China’s strategic intentions and its impact on global relations.

A Historical Perspective

Panda diplomacy has a rich history that dates back centuries and has evolved into a strategic soft power tool for China.[iii] The practice of sending pandas as diplomatic gifts can be traced back to as early as the Tang Dynasty (618 through 907) CE.[iv] However, modern panda diplomacy gained significant attention in 1941 when Madame Chiang Kai-shek, the wife of the Chinese leader, gifted a pair of pandas to the United States as a gesture of appreciation for American support during challenging times.[v] China’s decision to gift or loan pandas to other nations is not merely an act of generosity but a calculated move to enhance its soft power on the world stage. The cute nature of pandas transcends language barriers, winning hearts and minds across borders.

Soft Power Projection in a Geopolitically Tense World

In recent years, China’s Panda Diplomacy has evolved beyond mere symbolic gestures. In today’s geopolitically tense world, characterized by economic rivalries and strategic competition, China’s emphasis on projecting soft power through Panda Diplomacy is both strategic and symbolic.[vi] The decision to send pandas back to the US amid strained relations reflects Beijing’s desire to rebuild bridges and cultivate positive sentiment among the Americans.[vii] This strategic approach allows China to cultivate a “softer” image internationally, counterbalancing any negative perceptions or tensions that may exist in the geopolitical landscape.

Will Panda Diplomacy Strengthen Ties with the USA?

The question that arises is whether this renewed focus on Panda Diplomacy will indeed strengthen ties between China and the USA.[viii] While pandas have historically served as effective tools for fostering goodwill, their return to US zoos signifies a broader diplomatic strategy aimed at improving people-to-people relations. China hopes to pave the way for enhanced cooperation and understanding between the two nations by appealing to emotions and cultural affinity through these adorable creatures. Chinese panda diplomacy got a renewed traction in 1970s, aligning with era when the country gradually started reaching out to Western countries.

China has extended this diplomatic gesture to UK, Russia, Germany, France and Japan as well. These countries are among the ones that are becoming prominent leaders in the current geopolitical arena.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Panda Diplomacy stands as a testament to China’s unique approach to diplomacy—one that blends cultural heritage with strategic intent. As these gentle giants make their way back to American shores, they carry with them not just cuteness but also the potential to bridge divide and foster mutual respect. In a world fraught with tensions, the enduring charm of Panda Diplomacy serves as a reminder of the power of soft influence in shaping international relations.China has extended this diplomatic gesture to UK, Russia, Germany, France and Japan as well. These countries are either permanent members of UNSC or are emerging prominent leaders in the current geopolitical arena. But when it comes to India, which is a growing power in the region, China has never used this soft power tool with India to foster diplomatic ties. The question arises, why China has been selective in extending this diplomatic? Point to ponder upon.

 

Endnotes

[i]JustynaSzczudlik Role of Panda Diplomacy in China’s Foreign Policy, PISM, September 11, 2017. https://pism.pl/publications/Role_of__Panda_Diplomacy__in_China_s_Foreign_Policy_

 

[ii]Wilkinson Tom, “Panda Diplomacy: What Is It? And Is It Ending?” Thinking in English, https://thinkinginenglish.blog/2023/11/27/272-what-is-panda-diplomacy-english-vocabulary-lesson/

 

[iii] TaylorMia, “A Brief History of ‘panda Diplomacy’ – with New Additions to Global Zoos,”BBC, February 26, 2024. https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240226-a-brief-history-of-panda-diplomacy—with-new-additions-to-global-zoos

 

[iv] Prakash, Priyali. “What Is China’s Panda Diplomacy? | Explained” The Hindu, February 28, 2024. https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/what-is-chinas-panda-diplomacy-explained/article67881253.ece.

 

[v]Baptista Eduardo and Orr Bernard, “China to send more pandas to US, jump-starting new era of ‘panda diplomacy’”, Reuters,February 22, 2024. https://www.reuters.com/world/china/china-send-more-pandas-us-jump-starting-new-era-panda-diplomacy-2024-02-22/

 

[vi]Xinlu Liang, “How Has China’s Panda Diplomacy Evolved and Where Are Its Stars Now?”,South China Morning Post, May 30, 2023.https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3222175/how-has-chinas-panda-diplomacy-evolved-and-where-are-its-stars-now.

 

[vii]Baptista Eduardo and Orr Bernard, “China to send more pandas to US, jump-starting new era of ‘panda diplomacy’”, Reuters,February 22, 2024. https://www.reuters.com/world/china/china-send-more-pandas-us-jump-starting-new-era-panda-diplomacy-2024-02-22/

[viii] China signals its ‘panda diplomacy’ will resume with US, Europe”, The Straits Times, February 22,    2024. https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/china-signals-its-panda-diplomacy-will-resume-with-us-europe

 

By: Hemshikha Mishra, Research Intern, CS3, USI