Reference Message Network reported on May 26 that the Brazilian "Forum" magazine website published an article titled "The Economist Admits China's Soft Power" on May 23. The author is Yara Vidal. The following are excerpts from the article: In 2025, China achieved a historic milestone by becoming the second most powerful soft power in the world. "Soft power" refers to a country's ability to influence other countries and people around the world without using military force, coercion, or direct pressure. In other words, it is the ability of a nation to win admiration and respect from others through various forms of expression such as culture, values, policies, technological innovation, education, sports, music, movies, cuisine, and more. Even Britain's "The Economist" admitted that China's soft power has attracted the interest of young people worldwide. Recently, "The Economist" published an article titled "How China Became Cool," which tells the story of how an American "internet celebrity" helped enhance the image of this Asian giant overseas. Darren Watkins Jr. (Chinese nickname: "Hyperthyroidism Brother" - our website note), a 20-year-old internet celebrity from Ohio, USA, unexpectedly enhanced China's international image during his short visit to China. From March to April, he showcased China's long history, friendly people, and advanced technology to his 38 million followers. His live broadcasts included interactions with humanoid robots, delivery drones, and "air taxis," and he even performed a backflip at the Great Wall. His heartfelt praise and enthusiasm captured public attention, adding authenticity to China's external propaganda. This is a strong contribution to a nation's soft power. In recent years, under the promotion of bloggers and internet celebrities like "Hyperthyroidism Brother," foreign youth have become more willing to view China from a new perspective. China has been leading globally in advanced technology and cultural exports, particularly in the fields of electronic games and mobile applications. At the beginning of 2025, Chinese tech company DeepSeek launched an artificial intelligence model with significantly reduced training costs and functions closely matching Western top levels, receiving widespread attention. Moreover, Chinese-made electric vehicles are highly sought after internationally, and consumer-grade drones produced in China have dominated the global market for many years. In the cultural sector, Chinese products have also gained favor with international audiences. Several of the highest-earning mobile games worldwide in 2024 were developed in China. In 2024, China launched the electronic game "Black Myth:悟空" ("Monkey King:悟空"), marking another success for Chinese games in the global market. Among its 25 million players, approximately 30% are foreigners. In countries like Mexico and Indonesia, "micro dramas" from China are gaining popularity, expanding China's digital cultural influence worldwide. China adopts multiple public policies to promote its soft power, seeking to expand its global influence through non-coercive means such as culture, education, and diplomacy. In 2023, China proposed the Global Civilization Initiative, aiming to promote mutual respect among different civilizations and emphasize values such as peace, development, and justice. China expanded its youth exchange programs and facilitated visa-free entry for citizens of various countries, which also helps to enhance its own soft power. The Chinese government has also strengthened policies promoting tourism and cultural exchanges, enhancing China's image as more open. Latest data reflects the improvement in China's image. According to the "2025 Global Soft Power Index" released by UK brand consultancy Brand Finance, China rose from eighth place in 2021 to second place in 2025 in the global ranking of national soft power, just behind the United States. This result represents China's best performance since the company began monitoring national soft power. China's rise is the result of careful planning and a multi-faceted strategy. This indicates a shift in the global landscape, with China seen as a model of stable and efficient governance, contrasting sharply with the polarization and challenges faced by the United States. Research shows that China's success is due to its pragmatic attitude and focus on its own national development, while the image of the United States has been damaged by policies that alienate allies and partners. (Translated by Liu Lifei) Original source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/750856180946495/ Disclaimer: This article only represents the views of the author. Welcome to express your opinions by clicking the "like/dislike" buttons below.