What China really means when it says it’s being ‘strategic’

On September 12, Chinese President Xi Jinping conversed with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Brics summit in New Delhi. Xi emphasized that China perceives its relationship with India "from a strategic and long-term perspective." He advocated for an "objective and rational strategic perception," meaning both nations should regard each other as partners and opportunities, not rivals or threats.

In Chinese diplomatic language, calling a relationship "strategic" conveys high importance, long-term significance, and central weight. It implies sustained political attention, belief in mutual benefits, and positive externalities for the region or the world. China categorizes its partnerships into various tiers, with "comprehensive strategic partnerships" and even "all-weather strategic cooperative partnerships" being among the highest levels.

The term "strategic" in China's official and diplomatic language typically conveys goodwill and a commitment to long-term cooperation, rather than military or tactical importance. However, the English translation of "strategic" often implies calculated action, positioning, and deception, which can create misunderstandings. Chinese authorities are aware of these potential misinterpretations and have taken steps to mitigate them, such as prohibiting certain translations of key policies.

Nonetheless, the term "strategic" remains integral to Chinese discourse, and finding ways to clarify its meaning for English-speaking audiences is crucial to avoid confusion.