DIPLOMASI PANDA SEBAGAI DIPLOMASI SOFT POWER TIONGKOK PADA ERA PRESIDEN XI JINPING DALAM PERSPEKTIF HUBUNGAN BILATERAL DENGAN INDONESIA

This study examines China's soft power diplomacy strategy through the practice of panda diplomacy, with a focus on the relationship between China and Indonesia during the leadership of President Xi Jinping. Panda diplomacy represents a form of animal diplomacy employed as a symbolic tool to enhance the national image, strengthen bilateral relations, and support long-term geopolitical and economic objectives. The aim of this research is to analyze how China utilizes the symbolism of pandas in building strategic cooperation with Indonesia, one of its key partners within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This study adopts a qualitative approach using a document analysis method by reviewing official documents, media reports, and government publications related to the panda loan to Indonesia and the associated forms of cooperation. The findings indicate that panda diplomacy functions not only as a means of cultural exchange but also as a soft power instrument integrated into China's broader diplomatic strategy in Southeast Asia. Thus, the practice of panda diplomacy in Indonesia represents China’s efforts to expand its influence through non-coercive means based on a positive national image and symbols of cross-national friendship.