Comparative Analysis of Soft Power Policies of Great Powers in Central Asia 大国在中亚的“软实力”政策比较分析

Since modern times, Central Asia has been an arena for great power relations. After the independence of the Central Asian republics, the traditional great power competition based on the hard power of politics, economics and military remained, but it was accompanied by soft-power competition between the United States, Russia, and Turkey. In recent years, China’s economic contacts with Central Asian countries have become increasingly close. Especially since the Belt and Road Initiative was put forward, increasing amounts of Chinese capital and labor have entered the local market. However, China’s soft power in Central Asia is not commensurate with its economic strength, which has not turned into its influence and appeal to Central Asian countries. However, anti-China sentiment in Central Asian countries is on the rise. On soft power policy, China should strengthen social exchanges, encourage non-governmental organizations, foundations, research institutes, and think-tanks to operate in Central Asia and better understand local social dynamics.