China’s diaspora engagement policy and its powerful effect outside its borders

The overall Chinese diaspora population is one of the world's largest at more than 60 million.Since President Xi Jinping came to power in November 2012, China's diaspora policy has transnational elements that are increasingly mainstream. According to a strategic plan issued by the State Council of China in 2015 calledMade in China 2025, building an advanced manufacturing industry would allow China to sustain its economic growth, safeguard national security, and boost global political and economic influence.China's manufacturing sector is undergoing a crucial transition, shifting from the low to the high end of the industrial chain.Tapping scientific, professional, and entrepreneurial skills in the diaspora has solidified as a strategic aim.All levels of government have sought to attract such talent-prioritising the knowledge network over capital flow, as have other economically advanced economies such as the US, Singapore, and Australia.In 2018, the Communist Party Central Committee called on all diaspora to help 'realise the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and build a community with a shared future for humanity,' by 'telling Chinese stories, assisting economic development of China, upholding the greater national interests [meaning national reunion], and promoting Chinese culture'.