All the Spin That's Fit to Print

If you are not in the habit of reading Chinese op-eds, you really are missing out on some fantastic spin. China's propaganda apparatus is nothing new, but its external propaganda (外宣) has grown more sophisticated in the last decade. Whereas China Daily was once content to translate editorials of the major Chinese-language publications--i.e., material designed for domestic consumption--current works reflect a more nuanced style for the intended benefit of overseas Chinese and other foreign nationals. The results are frequently stilted but mark China's increasingly proactive approach to public communications. For example, instead of engaging in secrecy or playing an entirely reactive PR game with respect to its investments in Africa, China's leaders have couched them as much needed financial and technical assistance, while op-eds use the opportunity to knock the warmongering style of U.S. foreign policy.