| dc.description.abstract | Cultural diplomacy serves as a form of soft power, fostering understanding and collaboration
between nations and civilizations through cultural exchange, creative expression,
and other modes of cultural communication. Recently, the Chinese government integrated
culture as its third soft power pillar within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), aiming to
enhance its global reputation and reinforce its position in the power struggle with India.
Sri Lanka, with its rich cultural heritage, has become a primary focus of Chinese cultural
diplomacy. This research aims to investigate the impact of Chinese Cultural Diplomacy
on Indo-Sri Lanka relations. To achieve this, a deductive approach utilizing qualitative
methodology was employed. The study relied on secondary qualitative data from journal
articles, newspapers, and Indian news outlets such as Gravitas and NDTV. Through
thematic analysis, it was found that China primarily employs two methods-Confucius
Centers and Buddha Diplomacy-to disseminate its culture in Sri Lanka. However, due to
the longstanding cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka, India has e ectively countered
China’s in uence. Further, China’s attempts to exert control over Sri Lankan society and
improve its tarnished image resulting from the BRI and the ongoing economic crisis have
been met with resistance. The study o ers recommendations emphasizing the importance
of Sri Lanka adopting a balanced foreign policy, particularly regarding cultural matters
that carry signi cant emotional weight and consequences. Sri Lanka should exercise
caution when welcoming Chinese infrastructure projects as part of Buddha Diplomacy.
Additionally, it is crucial for Sri Lankan monks to avoid politicizing China’s Buddha
diplomacy. | en_US |
