In the wake of U.S.-China technological competition and the COVID-19 pandemic, “tech diplomacy” has gained prominence in Chinese political and academic discourse. This concept is often ideologically framed to critique Western hegemonic narratives perceived as hindering China's technological advancement. Concurrently, China has embraced a more assertive foreign policy, aiming to increase its global influence and shape international technological norms. We use historical-discursive analysis to investigate the Chinese government's localization and institutionalization of tech diplomacy. By examining official statements and academic sources since 2018, we examine how Beijing has framed tech diplomacy as a strategic response to geopolitical challenges, seeking to legitimize and institutionalize its global technological norms.
Policy implications
- To analyze and comprehend China's approach to tech diplomacy, scholars need to examine China's unique political and social context, reflect on the evolution of its conceptual framework for tech diplomacy, and understand the foundational principles underpinning its policy formulation.
- A comprehensive interpretation of China's foreign policy regarding technological development requires close attention to the global expansion of Chinese technology firms. Particular emphasis should be placed on the strategies and organizational policies of major tech giants (e.g., Tencent, ByteDance, Alibaba, Huawei), which frequently receive governmental assistance.
- Understanding the progression of China's tech diplomacy necessitates examination of research and consulting reports authored by Chinese political scientists. These individuals often serve dual roles as scholars and think tank experts, and their commentary frequently reinforces Beijing's official rhetoric and policy narratives.
- Analyzing China's tech-diplomacy practices involves a thorough examination of Beijing's regional cooperation projects or initiatives to advance its tech-diplomacy objectives. This analysis should assess the extent to which concepts promoted by China are accepted within regional frameworks such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
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