The Belt and Road Initiative: Impact on the Country's Image

The subject of the research is the formation and transformation of China's image in the global information space under the influence of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The object of the research is the materials from national (Chinese), Western (primarily American and British), and Russian mass media dedicated to covering this initiative. The author examines in detail such aspects of the topic as differences in the approaches and tone of the initiative's coverage in media from different countries, the influence of media discourse on the perception of China internationally, and the strategies of Chinese national media in shaping a positive image of the country. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of specific examples of media agendas, such as the concepts of "debt trap" and "cultural invasion" in Western media, as well as the emphasis on strategic partnership and mutual benefit in Russian media. Furthermore, the role of major international events, such as the Belt and Road Forums, as catalysts for media activity is explored. The research is based on a comparative content analysis and discourse analysis of mass media materials from various countries, as well as a synthesis of scientific publications on the topic of national image formation.vThe main conclusions of the conducted research are the identification of a persistent trend towards negative coverage of the Belt and Road Initiative and the formation of a critical image of China in Western mass media, while Russian media demonstrate an overall positive or neutral tone, contributing to the strengthening of a positive image of the PRC. The novelty of the research lies in the comparative analysis of media strategies and narratives using specific media outlets (BBC, "Russia 24", "People's Daily") as examples within the context of the initiative's tenth anniversary. A special contribution of the author to the research topic is the systematization of specific tools and methods used by Chinese national media to shape a favorable country image, including large-scale publications in foreign editions and the production of multilingual video content for the internet space. It is concluded that the Belt and Road Initiative has become a key factor and tool for shaping China's national image, and the state's media policy plays a decisive role in countering negative narratives and promoting positive perception globally.