Chinese Perceptions of the Future Geopolitical Role of the P.R.C. : A Survey on the Chinese Viewpoint on Issues of Present and Future International Relations.

Abstract: The intention of present thesis was to grasp a genuinely Chinese perspective on issues concerning international foreign politics and world affairs. A hypothetical-deductive method was used based on a questionnaire submitted to thirty-eight academicians of diverse academic backgrounds and age groups. The overall perception is that world affairs and regional politics are overwhelmingly dominated by the USA which is though the major Chinese foreign policy partner. Russia is the most significant regional partner whereas Japan is unanimously considered aggressive and ambitious, especially because of its alleged attempts to remilitarize. The Chinese consider as the major threat the unsettled Taiwanese issue whereas terrorism and nuclear threats are a far marginal matter for their security, which would improve by strengthening multilateralism and regional integration. The UN and the European raison d'être and modus operandi appear as a significant model to look at to improve regional integration and stability for reasons of economic growth, regional economic integration and peace. In Northeast Asia a peaceful settlement of the Korean issue is advocated and China is considered as the major regional power. The international community is perceived as positively accepting this "peaceful" Chinese preeminence but signs of worries are detected among Asian neighbors.