Cultural Diplomacy: How China Uses Heritage to Foster International Relations

In an evolving landscape of international relations, China is increasingly leveraging its rich cultural heritage as a key tool for diplomacy. Recent high-level visits demonstrate a strategic shift towards incorporating cultural experiences into diplomatic agendas, aiming to build trust and mutual understanding with foreign leaders and address perceptions of the country.

The Palace Museum as a Diplomatic Hub

The Palace Museum in Beijing, also known as the Forbidden City, has emerged as a central location for these cultural exchanges. In January 2026, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo toured the museum with veteran guide Wang Xiaoxin. Wang shared a historical anecdote about Osvald Siren, a Finnish-born art historian invited by Puyi, the last emperor of the Qing Dynasty, to visit the Forbidden City in 1922. China Daily reports that this story resonated with Orpo, sparking a deeper engagement with Chinese history and culture.

Orpo later praised the experience on social media, noting the contrast between the ancient historical site and the modern city surrounding it. The museum, according to Wang Xiaoxin, offers a valuable window into understanding China’s core values and historical trajectory. China Daily

Beyond the Palace: A Broader Cultural Itinerary

The trend extends beyond the Palace Museum. Several other foreign leaders have incorporated cultural experiences into their visits to China in recent months. Irish Taoiseach Micheal Martin, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, President of Uruguay Yamandu Orsi, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have all participated in cultural activities during their trips.

Keir Starmer’s itinerary included visits to both the Palace Museum and Yuyuan Garden in Shanghai, a classical Chinese garden. He also dined at a Yunnan cuisine restaurant in Beijing. Dom Hastings, culture counsellor at the British embassy in China, emphasized that these arrangements reflect the multifaceted nature of the UK-China relationship, encompassing political, economic, and cultural dimensions. China Daily

A symbolic moment during Starmer’s visit involved sitting at the same table at Yuyuan Garden that Queen Elizabeth II occupied during her 1986 state visit, highlighting the enduring legacy of cultural connections.

The Strategic Importance of Cultural Diplomacy

Experts suggest this increased focus on cultural exchange is a deliberate strategy. Zhao Hongyan, a professor of international relations at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, notes that cultural activities are now more systematically integrated into leaders’ itineraries, becoming a significant feature of high-level diplomacy. China Daily

This shift reflects the growing importance of “soft communication” and public diplomacy in international engagement. By engaging with local communities, cuisine, history, and daily life, leaders can gain a more nuanced understanding of Chinese society and civilization. Such interactions can also signal openness and a willingness to improve bilateral relations, fostering trust for future negotiations.

Zhao Hongyan emphasizes the value of face-to-face interaction in breaking down stereotypes and promoting authentic understanding. She suggests expanding cultural experiences beyond traditional symbols to include stories of ordinary people and showcasing China’s advancements in technology and sustainable development.

German Chancellor Merz’s visit to Unitree Robotics in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, exemplifies this approach, highlighting China’s growing capabilities in robotics and artificial intelligence.

Key Takeaways

• China is strategically utilizing its cultural heritage to enhance diplomatic relations.
• The Palace Museum has develop into a focal point for cultural exchanges with foreign leaders.
• Cultural experiences are increasingly integrated into diplomatic itineraries to foster trust and understanding.
• Experts believe this approach reflects the growing importance of soft power and public diplomacy.