ABSTRACT
Since the turn of the century, China has gradually taken on new roles in the international community. Supported by a fast-growing economy, China has not only developed into a regional power with expanded roles in Central and Southeast Asia, but the country also shows aspirations to become a great power through increased military capacities and political influences. China's economic rise is arguably one of the most important phenomena of the new century. It is interesting to note that from a cultural studies perspective that emphasizes the sharing of history, language, customs, beliefs, institutions and arts among a particular society as "culture", the Confucius Institute, though commonly regarded as an agency for the distribution of culture, is not in itself a conspicuous cultural entity. While China attempts to teach the world about its language, culture and history through the Confucius Institute, it does not remain idle on traditional issues pertaining to political and economic interests.
