Diplomacy: Chinese Consulates Work on “Mask Diplomacy” in the U.S.

NBC reported that China has carried out a “mask diplomacy” strategy around the world, burnishing its reputation through the use of massive donations of protective equipment and ventilators. In the U.S., all five Chinese Consulates, including the Chinese Embassy in the U.S., have worked on such donations in exchange for the recipients’ showing appreciation to Beijing.

Critics say that, while the communities receiving the donations genuinely need them, they come with strings attached in the form of propaganda value for China’s government. Chinese state-run media outlets cover these events to showcase China’s generosity toward the struggling communities.

Two senior U.S. officials said the U.S. government has long been concerned about the political activities of the Chinese consulates in that they target local communities and their leaders with propaganda.

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