The aim of this paper is to define present-day Chinese strategic culture and explore the central elements of Chinese strategic thought under the presidency of Xi Jinping. Chinese strategic culture is found to be built on the philosophies of Confucianism and the Tianxia theory. The policies and initiatives undertaken by Xi Jinping have been studied in order to arrive at the central themes of Chinese strategic thought-the maintenance of order and stability, the consolidation and projection of power, an emphasis on Chinese leadership along with the construction of Chinese spheres of influence. The study of strategic culture can provide insights into how a country frames its policies by tracing key historical conceptions over various subjects such as alliances, war, and state behaviour. By conceptualising Chinese strategic culture, useful explanations over why the state and various other actors have taken specific actions in various circumstances can be put forth, thus rendering the study of strategic culture crucial in explaining the recent border disputes with India. The paper will conclude with implications for relations with India by exploring possible areas of cooperation and areas of persisting conflict.




Pavan Raghavendra worked as a Research Intern at the Chennai Centre for China Studies (C3S). He completed his B.A (Research) in International Relations from Shiv Nadar University, Greater Noida. As part of Bachelor's degree his thesis was on "Civil-Military Relations in the XI Jinping Era: Building Professionalism of the PLA with Chinese Characteristics". His areas of interest include Security
Studies, Science and Technology in International Relations, Civil-Military Relations, the Chinese PLA, and Chinese Foreign Policy.


Subramanyam Sridharan is a Computer Scientist by education and profession. He served in technical positions in one of the leading IT companies abroad before returning to India to head some of the divisions of the same company from India. He has been a keen observer of international relations for nearly three decades being also an administrator for an internet-based forum that discusses India's strategic security. He has interests in Indian foreign policy and closely follows events in Pakistan, Afghanistan and China.


Balasubramanian C is a PhD scholar working on Sino-Russia Relations in the changing world order as his primary topic of research. He holds a post graduate in Public Administration. A columnist with regular contributions for the Diplomatist, The Geopolitics among several others. His areas of interest include China's Foreign Policy, India's Foreign Policy including Neighbourhood & Maritime Affairs. His expertise lies in topics ranging from Science & Technology in China, Geo-economics & Statecraft, Indo- Pacific Affairs among others. He is also an Editor & ompiler of fortnightly newsletter 'China Watch' and has spoken/presented at various fora on strategic affairs.