China��s Image -- Global Perspective Workshop successfully held

24 Dec 2024

On December 7 to 8, the Department of Media and Communication (DMC) of School of Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) at Xi��an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) successfully held the ��China��s Image: Global Perspective�� workshop, bringing together scholars from XJTLU and other leading institutions to critically explore the dynamic and multifaceted image of China on the global stage.

The workshop promoted extensive discussions to critically unfold China��s images. The invited guests included Professor Li Zhang, Associate Dean of School of Journalism and Communication, Tsinghua University; Dr. Enze Han, Associate Professor from Department of Politics and Public Administration, the University of Hong Kong; and Professor Feng Wu, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee, School of News and New Media, Xi��an Jiaotong University.

The workshop was organised by Dr Qingning Wang from DMC. It was a mid-term outcome for her XJTLU Research Development Fund project: The National Image of China in the British Society: Policy Agenda, Media Representation and Public Perceptions in the 21st Century.

The successful organisation of workshop demonstrated DMC's dedication to lead scholarly discussions on highly relevant and important global issues and reflected HSS��s excellent environment to support development of young scholar. It also showed XJTLU��s impact as a research-led international university in China.

Day 1 Opening Address and Keynotes

Unpacking the Themes: Policy, Media, and Public Narratives

The workshop began with a welcoming address from Professor Beibei Tang.

Dr. Qingning Wang then delivered an opening address highlighting the interplay of government, media, and public opinions in shaping China's image. Her insights laid the foundation for later discussions in the workshop.

Building the Intellectual Discourse through Keynotes

Professor Li Zhang analysed the EU-China relationship in her keynote speech. She demonstrated the tensions between cooperation and competition within European narratives about China, and how media agenda has impacted policy agenda.

Dr. Enze Han examined China's influence in Southeast Asia, focusing on the roles of?non-state actors, like private enterprises and migrants, in shaping bilateral relations.

Day 2- Special Panel and Roundtable Discussion

Diverse Perspectives on China��s Global Role

The second day of the workshop featured a special panel from School of News and New Media, Xi��an Jiaotong University, led by its Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee, Professor Feng Wu.

Professor Wu started the panel by delivering a presentation on the press conferences of Chinese national leaders. He particularly addressed the historical evolution of China��s press communication strategies, linking leadership narratives with public diplomacy.

Dr Weili Wang, continued the panel through a presentation on China's image from the perspective of foreign tourists. He examined how foreign tourists' travel vlogs on international platforms construct nuanced perceptions of China, emphasising the importance of first impressions in nation branding.

The third presentation was by Dr. Zhengmao Liao, by using bibliometric analysis method, he explored the academic landscape of academic studies on China's image.
The presentation particularly revealed the evolving trends, highlighting similarities and differences between domestic and international research.

Dr Hanyang Wang��s presentation focused on the Belt and Road Narratives. She discussed how China used strategic storytelling to position itself as a responsible global power under the Belt and Road Initiative.

A Roundtable Discussion and a Vision Forward

The workshop concluded with a roundtable discussion. Scholars exchanged views on?how China��s cultural, economic, and political strategies are perceived worldwide, addressing challenges in achieving balanced representation in a multipolar world.