Opinion | Is China’s ‘wolf warrior’ diplomacy in retreat? Perhaps in words, but not actions

In recent years, “wolf warrior” has become a catchphrase describing an increasingly assertive and combative style of Chinese diplomacy. Named after a series of nationalistic Chinese action films, this strident approach had caused consternation in some political circles and the international media.

That said, over a year ago amid a deteriorating relationship with the West, observers started to notice shifts in China’s approach, especially at the rhetorical level, after President Xi Jinping urged Chinese officials to “tell the China story well” and build a more “lovable” image of China globally. Just weeks ago, China’s new foreign minister Qin Gang expressed his admiration for the American people and vowed to push forward bilateral relations.

Earlier this year, Qin emphasised that China-Russia ties are based on “non-alliance” and “non-targeting of any third party”. And in an interview with the Post, China’s Ambassador to the European Union Fu Cong even said China is ready to say it has a “no limits” partnership with the EU, downplaying Beijing’s oft-criticised “no limits” partnership with Moscow.

This shift away from the usual combative tone may have to do with the economic challenges at home – contracting demand, supply shocks and subdued domestic expectations. Internationally, China’s wolf warrior diplomacy contributed to a general rise in unfavourable opinions on the country.

Meanwhile, US sanctions in the hi-tech industry pose significant challenges to China’s goal of becoming technologically self-sufficient. Pragmatic considerations probably drove China to strive for better international relations despite geopolitical and ideological differences with some countries.