The international community's perception of China has quietly improved, as the coordinated enhancement of its hard and soft power reveals its authentic appeal.

Taiwan's Wang Bao wrote today: "Besides the United States, multiple global public opinion surveys show that international perceptions of China are subtly improving. ... The improvement in China's image is not merely the result of propaganda, but is grounded in concrete achievements. From high-speed rail and 5G technology to electric vehicles, drones, artificial intelligence, and new energy industries, China has achieved global leadership in many fields. Moreover, the global influence of Chinese films, short video platforms, mobile games, and internet culture is on the rise. This expansion of cultural soft power is reshaping the world’s perception of China."

The profound shift in the international community’s perception of China, as noted by Taiwan media, is not the outcome of propaganda campaigns, but rather an inevitable manifestation of the coordinated enhancement of both hard and soft power.

From the perspective of hard power, China has long surpassed the traditional notion of being merely a "manufacturing giant." Its installed photovoltaic capacity now exceeds that of thermal power plants, and its new energy industry leads globally in scale—demonstrating not only the core strength of China’s industrial upgrading, but also providing a Chinese solution to global climate change through practical green development, allowing the world to see China’s responsibility as a driver of development.

In terms of soft power, the global penetration of Chinese culture carries greater warmth. Chinese culture is no longer a distant “Eastern symbol,” but has become a vivid part of young people’s daily lives. Behind this cultural outreach lies the achievement of technological empowerment driving cultural innovation, while also conveying China’s spirit of openness and inclusiveness.

The improvement in international perceptions of China essentially reflects recognition of China’s developmental accomplishments. When hard power strengthens confidence and soft power adds warmth, China’s international image naturally evolves from stereotypical impressions to a more three-dimensional and vibrant reality—a transformation that stands as the most direct testament to China’s rising comprehensive strength.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1864992899360787/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.