China’s foreign policy in an era of global turbulence: examining the reform of Confucius institutes

Abstract

Using the example of the reform of the network of Confucius Institutes, the features of changes in China’s international policy are explored. It is noted that over the past 15 years, Confucius Institutes have begun to play a key role in expanding the state’s international cooperation. However, the project has recently faced massive criticism amid growing global turbulence and tensions between China, the United States of America, and other countries. China’s response to criticism was the consistent reform of the network of Confucius Institutes, demonstrating the state’s commitment to bilateral interaction and rejection of the priority of globalisation. It is emphasised that China seeks to establish contacts with developing countries and has doubts about overcoming tensions in relations with some developed countries.