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Graphic shows countries with most diplomatic posts. Full list can be found here: https://globaldiplomacyindex.lowyinstitute.org/country_rank.html
GN39741EN

POLITICS

China overtakes U.S. as world’s largest diplomatic power

By Jordi Bou

November 27, 2019 - China has overtaken the U.S. as the country with the largest diplomatic network, a clear indication of Beijing’s growing international ambitions.

According to the Lowy Institute, China now has 276 embassies and other representative offices globally, three more than the U.S.

After China and the U.S., France is the next most connected diplomatic power, according to the report, with 267 embassies and consulates around the world. Japan is in fourth place, with Russia ranked fifth.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has been building his international profile since coming to power in 2012, seeking to put Beijing at the centre of global affairs.

China's diplomatic rise has been rapid in recent years. In 2016, it was still third behind the U.S. and France with only 267 diplomatic missions. In 2017 it had moved to second spot.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 27/11/2019; STORY: Graphic News
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