China's Foreign Policy Decision-Making Mechanism and “One Belt One Road” Strategy

Abstract

China's foreign policy agenda will change significantly from “keeping a low profile” to “proactively and enterprisingly striving for achievements” as it implements the One Belt One Road (OBOR) strategy. It requires the foreign policy apparatus to make a response accordingly. However, the current policymaking mechanism has three flaws that include the collection and analysis of information, the selection and summary of policy suggestions, and the final decision making, of which the second process is particularly obvious. Hence, China needs to reform the conceptual framework, bureaucratic systems and talent selection of the foreign policy bureaucracy. Firstly, it should change the view of “no preferential diplomacy for weak country” and form wide-ranging political vision and long-term perspective in the relationship with surrounding countries. Secondly, China should strengthen the National Security Council (NSC)'s control over external affairs and appoint a standing member of the Politburo as deputy NSC chairman and deputy leader of the Central Foreign Affairs Leading Group. This official would then be responsible for foreign affairs. In addition, the post of foreign minister should be held by a vice premier who is also a member of the Politburo. Thirdly, it needs to separate political appointees and civil servants, to strengthen off-the-job training and to appoint experienced specialists and scholars to its decision-making agency.

Keywords:

• One Belt One Road (OBOR)
• National Security Council (NSC)
• China's foreign policy making
• mechanism reform

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Li Xue

Dr. Li XUE is the director of the international strategic branch from Institute of World Economics and Politics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing. His research interests include Chinese foreign policy, international relations theory and issues on the South China Sea.