Opinion | China’s foreign policy has failed Chinese people. Here’s how to put it right

Last year, the Chinese Communist Party passed a historical resolution that, in part, said: “China has broken new ground in its diplomatic endeavours amid profound global changes and turned crises into opportunities amid complex situations on the international stage. These efforts have resulted in a marked increase in China’s international influence, appeal, and power to shape.”

This view isn’t held only by the elite. According to a recent poll, 78 per cent of Chinese believed China was viewed favourably abroad. Unfortunately for the country, the truth is more depressing.

Over the past five years, China’s international image and appeal have deteriorated. China is increasingly criticised around the world and there are few countries whose relations with Beijing are stronger today than in 2016, with the notable exception of Russia.

On the other hand, China’s relations with countries from Germany and South Korea to Canada and India have cooled considerably. This is in stark contrast with the early 2010s, when China was embraced as an economic opportunity and a cooperative partner, and President Xi Jinping received warm welcomes in London and Washington.

Meanwhile, the costs for China are dire: Chinese abroad have been harassed and discriminated against, students and researchers have been refused visas, companies have been sanctioned, exports have been blocked or subject to tariffs.