Every pearl in this chain or string refers to a sphere of power, which China is trying to secure along the IOR. The String of Pearls strategy is focused on increasing China’s economic, military, diplomatic and political clout in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). So, historically, China has affirmed that their strategic culture revolves around defence and protecting its borders. Contemporary Chinese strategists have also asserted that the country’s strategic culture has always emphasized the defensive military stance, therefore, it stands in contrast with the aggressive strategic cultures of many other countries.įurthermore, it is important to note that, since 1940, China considers every military venture as a self-defence measure, including the Korean War (1950–1953), the Sino-Indian war (1962), the clashes with the land attack against Vietnam (1979) and Soviet Union (1969).

Many historians have emphasized that the Chinese strategic culture has taken influence from the Confucius school of thought which focuses on peace and defence. The term ‘strategic culture’ was first used in China’s policies in 1988. It also brings into line China’s strategy, i.e. It will also establish direct rail and road corridors between East Asia and Europe. It is expected that the BRI will build a chain of seaports linking China with South Asia, South East Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Europe. The BRI was announced by the Chinese President, Xi Jinping, during his visit1 to Kazakhstan in September 2013. China focuses predominantly on these features, which has been additionally augmented by the oceanic security policy, and the BRI, formerly known as One Belt One Road (OBOR). Strategic culture in the 21st century has moved from its outdated standpoint of the 20th century and is more focused on other facets of security that include ecology, economics, environment, population, energy, and the rights of the unborn.

Pearl strings theory