Wolf Warrior Diplomacy: China's Selective Engagement

In recent years, there has been a noticeable decrease in the direct, aggressive rhetoric associated with China's 'wolf warrior' diplomacy. However, this does not signify an abandonment of the tactic. Instead, China has become far more selective in its diplomatic messaging, tailoring its approach based on the audience, issue, and strategic objectives. The 'wolf warrior' diplomacy, which gained prominence around 2019, was characterized by spokespersons and diplomats using assertive language, often on social media, to criticize foreign governments. This approach was rooted in President Xi Jinping's call for 'major country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics,' emphasizing the need to defend China's core interests and assert itself in international discourse. More recently, in line with Xi's directive to build a 'credible, lovable, and respectable image of China,' Beijing has adopted a calmer tone in its foreign policy. This evolution suggests that China has not abandoned 'wolf warrior' diplomacy but has instead refined its application. With the United States, China continues to maintain a firm stance on issues it considers core interests, such as Taiwan and national security. However, it increasingly pairs these firm positions with language of dialogue, cooperation, and stability, moderating the communication of its stance. Europe has generally been less of a target for direct 'wolf warrior' tactics compared to the US. This is partly because European nations have maintained a more cautious approach on Taiwan-related issues than Washington, and their strong economic ties with China make direct confrontation less desirable. Beijing tends to prioritize stable relations with Europe, employing cooperative messaging like 'partners, not rivals,' unless its core interests are directly challenged. Towards the Global South, China has increasingly presented itself as a partner, promoting the concept of a 'community with a shared future for mankind.' Initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative aim to position China as a leader among developing nations and reshape the global order, with aggressive diplomatic tactics rarely employed in this context. Overall, China's foreign policy appears to be evolving towards a more sophisticated and selective approach, adapted to its specific goals and interlocutors. This strategic shift aims to enhance China's global influence while managing its international image.