Ways to solve the problems of information and digital literacy within the framework of the "One Belt, One Road" initiative

Abstract

The objective of this research is to delve into the portrayal of China's national image within the framework of the "The Belt and Road Initiative". This study selects Kazakhstan's media outlet, the reports of "Kazinform" on China spanning from 2018 to 2022 as its subject of investigation, employing quantitative research methodology for a comprehensive examination, including the overall volume of coverage, key themes and content. And our focus is specifically directed towards the distribution patterns and overarching trends of political, economic and cultural themes within the reports. The research findings reveal that "Kazinform" presents a relatively objective and favorable image of China as a nation. In a more detailed context, "Kazinform" accurately reflects China's current state of development across five domains: politics, economics, culture, military affairs and society. Nonetheless, we have also identified instances of negative report. These reports serve to provide us with a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted dimensions of China's image within Kazakhstan's mainstream online media. Simultaneously, they shed light on the factors underlying the formation of the "Chinese perspective" within the content of reports, thereby facilitating a clearer appreciation of the significance of the "Belt and Road Initiative" within the geopolitical landscape of Central Asia.