In the author’s view, China is currently obsessed by a desire for recognition of its historic and strategic depth and is above all eager to safeguard its development. Its aim is to promote stability and security to enable the methodical implementation of a discrete yet ambitious regional and global policy of influence.

How does China see itself in the world, and what strategies and tactics does it employ to strengthen its position on the international stage? This analysis is based on the nation’s strategic culture, and examines the long-term implementation of an all-encompassing strategy.

Can China forgo alliances as it treads the path from emergence to peaceful development? Is regional security cooperation sufficient for its purposes? How can it associate its neighbours with its interests and security? This article offers some suggestions from a specialist.