Smart gifts promote changing China

Silk, tea, porcelain and giant panda have traditionally represented China's image, the image of an "ancient civilization", to the outside world. But it seems new elements are taking over the important cultural task. Call it the strength of China's soft power, if you will.

During his visit to four Latin American countries, President Xi Jinping presented his hosts "State gifts" from China - DVDs of popular TV serials, including Love is Not Blind, Beijing Youth and To Elderly with Love, which depict the daily lives of Chinese urban dwellers.

A country's leader displays his charisma and presents his country's image when he visits a foreign land. Therefore, the "State gifts" he/she carries have to be carefully chosen, because they are liable to different interpretations.