impact of high-level visits --- High-level visits by head of states, prime ministers or foreign ministers can be a very effect PD tool. In 2018 we had a high-level visit of our President, Chancellor and four ministers to China together with a business, cultural and science delegation. All in all around 300 participants. They stayed in China for a week visiting different cities and engaging with Chinese counterparts. The media coverage was extensive (for our standards) and the entire visit had a crucial impact in our bilateral relations. We still benefit from it today, even after a pandemic and souring relations. In our view the size of the delegation including President and Chancellor and the length of the stay made a difference here in China.

Source author: Elisabeth Jaklitsch Elisabeth.JAKLITSCH@bmeia.gv.at