The relational turn in Chinese diplomatic theory and practice: Towards a community with a shared future for mankind?

Popović, Slobodan (2025) The relational turn in Chinese diplomatic theory and practice: Towards a community with a shared future for mankind? Međunarodni problemi, 77 (4). pp. 561-586. ISSN 2683-3867

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Abstract

This paper departs from the hypothesis that the Community with a Shared Future for Mankind represents a relational turn in Chinese diplomatic theory and practice. This relational turn is underpinned by its Global Development, Security, and Civilization Initiatives. The study employs relational theory from the field of international relations, alongside approaches developed within diplomatic studies. The qualitative analysis of the Chinese officials’ actions and statements was conducted using Voyant software. The findings suggest that China’s announcement of the three initiatives, followed by efforts to implement them through transformative and interconnected projects with global partners, reflects its strategic objectives, ambition to institutionalize power, and growing influence in shaping global governance. China holds the stance that, in doing so, it is sharing wisdom to improve global governance, since we all share the same planet. By providing substance to these three initiatives through collaboration with partners worldwide, China creates a new structure of relations, a system of values, rules of behavior, forms of interdependence, and a global community with a shared future. Building such a community requires balanced development, shared security, multilateralism, and intercultural dialogue.

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