Historical Roots of the « Chinese Dream »
Although Xi Jinping first mentioned it in 2012, the roots of this concept of this concept go back to a much earlier period. It was used extensively particularly in the 1987 book « The Emigrants’ Dream – The China Dream (Qiao zhi Meng – Zhongguo Meng). However, the first modern use of this expression expression dates back to 1932, when the publication of : « The Eastern Miscellany (Dongfang Zazhi), prompted a call for Chinese readers and intellectual figures to write their own « Chinese dream » (Zhonguo Mengxiang).
The Three Levels of the « Chinese Dream »
The « Chinese Dream » encompasses three distinct ambitions that vary in geographic scope: the « Chinese Dream » or domestic dream, the « Asian Dream » on a regional level, and the « World Dream » with global ambitions. This framework will guide the analysis in the following sections, focusing primarily on the first two dreams.
Emergence of the « Chinese Dream » as National Vision
The concept gained renewed focus in 2012 with Xi Jinping’s appointment as General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party. Building upon previous themes of « peaceful rise » and « peaceful development, » Xi’s « Chinese Dream » aimed to counter the theory of a looming « Chinese threat. » This shift ushered in a change in China’s diplomatic approach on both regional and international stages.
A New Direction in China’s Foreign Policy
Under Xi Jinping, China’s foreign policy has transitioned from a conservative, defensive stance to a more active and assertive approach. This shift became evident immediately after Xi’s appointment, during the 18th Communist Party summit in November 2012, when he first mentioned the « Chinese Dream » at the Road to National Rejuvenation exhibition at the Chinese National Museum.
Defining the « Chinese Dream » as National Rebirth
During this museum visit, Xi Jinping defined the « Chinese Dream » as the great rebirth of the Chinese nation. He further elaborated on this concept in subsequent speeches, notably on March 17, 2013, describing it as the collective dream of the entire nation and each individual. For Xi, the « Chinese Dream » represents the people’s aspirations, which the leadership is tasked with realizing.
The « Chinese Dream » and its Foreign Policy Goals
Analysis of Xi Jinping’s speeches reveals that the « Chinese Dream » informs China’s foreign policy goals. It seeks to re-establish China’s central role in international affairs and secure its position among the world’s great powers. This aspiration is reflected in the concept of « fu qiang, » a cornerstone of the twelve core values promoted by China’s leadership. Central to Chinese collective memory, the « Chinese Dream » symbolizes the vision of national development and renaissance (fuxing, 复兴), anchored by unity and the leadership of the Communist Party.
Strengthening China’s International Position
The « Chinese Dream » also envisions a stronger, more proactive China on the global stage. Xi Jinping has consistently underscored the importance of international respect for China’s power and equality with the United States, signaling his ambition to bolster China’s global influence. This goal harks back to China’s prominent economic and cultural status during the Tang dynasty (618-907). This approach reflects a shift from reactive (fanying shi waijiao) to proactive diplomacy (zhudong shi waijiao), transforming China from a passive actor to a shaper of its external environment.
Shifting from Passive to Active Diplomacy
This diplomatic evolution is evident in China’s increased confidence and proactivity, a mindset shift that began following the Asian financial crisis of 1997. China gained confidence as perceptions of American power waned, and this empowered Xi Jinping to emerge as China’s most influential leader since Mao.
The « One Belt, One Road » Initiative
An instrumental aspect of this proactive diplomacy is the « One Belt, One Road » (OBOR) initiative, a cornerstone of Xi Jinping’s foreign policy. As a response to the U.S. « pivot to Asia, » OBOR promotes China’s model of socialism by investing in infrastructure and human resources across the region. By funding projects such as favorable loans to Indonesia and high-speed rail in Laos, China aims to integrate other regional economies, echoing the effects of the Marshall Plan. This regional diplomacy emphasizes incentives rather than force, signaling a departure from previous approaches.
From « Keeping a Low Profile » to Assertive Diplomacy
Under Xi, China has transitioned from Deng Xiaoping’s « keeping a low profile » (Guang Yang Hui) to a more assertive model known as « Fen Fa You Wei. » This shift, visible in new policies and high-level initiatives, suggests that the former approach is gradually being replaced by a more proactive and influential Chinese foreign policy.
The Military Aspect of the « Chinese Dream »
The military component of the « Chinese Dream » involves three key areas: enhancing Chinese military power, promoting a regional « Asian Security » concept, and restructuring China’s security apparatus. In a 2015 interview with the Wall Street Journal, Xi Jinping emphasized China’s commitment to a defensive military strategy, referred to as « active defense. » He maintained that China seeks to avoid military conflicts while continuing to strengthen its defenses.
The « Asian Security Concept »
In May 2015, Xi Jinping introduced the « Asian Security Concept, » a framework advocating collective, cooperative, and sustainable security rooted in Asian identity and culture. This concept shares similarities with the Monroe Doctrine, emphasizing the resolution of Asian affairs by Asian nations. It reflects China’s ambition to reduce foreign diplomatic and military influence and to establish itself as a regional security power.
Economic and Cultural Influence as Strategic Tools
China’s positioning as a regional power is being achieved through a blend of economic soft power and cultural populism. Xi Jinping envisions a future where China supplies cutting-edge military equipment to Asian nations, presenting itself as a viable regional alternative to the United States.
Structural Reforms in National Security
The « Chinese Dream » is also evident in the structural transformation of China’s security apparatus. Xi Jinping established the National Security Commission to centralize China’s security policy, bringing together military, state, and party bodies to address both domestic and international security issues. This commission expands Xi’s influence in security matters, positioning China as a significant player on the global stage.
Conclusion
In essence, the « Chinese Dream » reflects Xi Jinping’s vision of a resurgent China that is economically robust and internationally assertive. With national renaissance at its core, the « Chinese Dream » signifies China’s aspiration for growth, unity, and heightened global influence, directed by a proactive and confident leadership.