China, Italy
China's United Front tests influence method in Italy

China, Europe
Beijing adopts more 'subtle' approach to boost image abroad

In a bid to raise its tarnished image in the West, Beijing is revamping its influence strategy by focusing on discreet, targeted recruitment and eschewing the lavish offers once made to influencers. Instead, the CCP is seeking to subtly undermine Western criticism through voices deemed neutral and reliable.

China
Xi Jinping's anti-corruption drive targets United Front and Chinese diaspora

The Chinese Communist Party is extending its crackdown beyond its borders. Having disciplined domestic elites, Xi Jinping is now targeting the United Front Work Department and diaspora networks, discreet cornerstones of Beijing's parallel diplomacy.

The Agencies' Gazette
DGSE screening, US naval intelligence, China's anti-corruption drive, Paris-Moscow skirmish

Appointments, reforms and the issues at stake: every Monday, Intelligence Online serves up snippets big and small from the global intelligence community.

FranceDGSE speeds up clearance procedures to boost recruitment

USThink-tank with US Navy ties mulls potential clash with Beijing

ChinaAcademy of Social Sciences targeted by anti-corruption drive

RussiaDiplomatic tussle between Paris and Moscow

China, Hungary
CCP takes BRI a step further with Global Security Initiative

China has asked some countries with which it enjoys strong bilateral relations to subscribe to Xi Jinping's vision of world order, as laid out in his Global Security Initiative. It is a new China-centric geopolitical viewpoint that goes further than Beijing's Belt & Road Initiative goals.

China
Beijing prepares to deploy Belt and Road 'militia'

China wants to provide military units to state firms established in countries which have joined the Belt and Road Initiative, in order to stamp out internal corruption and protect Chinese foreign investments.

Italy
Justice ministry to hold intense talks over interception budget

Italy's interception specialists will negotiate with officials who are determined to cut costs further.

China
Soft power: Beijing tries a more personal touch abroad

Chinese diplomacy is pulling out all the stops to improve its image and forge links with selected foreign nationals through cultural initiatives, research collaborations and business opportunities. Its main targets are the United States and the Global South.

The Agencies' Gazette
MbS in London, the UK FARA, Rome between Beijing and Delhi, DGSE ethics

Appointments, reforms and the issues at stake: every Monday, Intelligence Online serves up snippets big and small from the global intelligence community.

Saudi Arabia/UKDate set for MbS London visit

United KingdomBritish FARA not up to scratch

ItalyRome split between ties with China or India

FranceDGSE bolsters ethics