China-Arab Co-produced Documentaries: Narrative Strategies and International Communication under the Vision of Civilizational Mutual Learning

Juan Ma; Run Ma; Dr. Muhammad Nasir

doi:10.5281/zenodo.18194603

Authors

Juan Ma Institute of International Relations, Yunnan University; Kunming 650091, Yunnan, P.R. China
Run Ma Zhaotong University; Zhaotong 657000, Yunnan, P.R. China
Dr. Muhammad Nasir Department of Social Work (University of Balochistan Quetta)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18194603

Keywords:

Civilizational Mutual Learning, International Communication, Sino-Arab Co-Produced Documentaries, National Image Building

Abstract

Amid deepening global cultural exchanges, documentaries have become vital instruments for cultural communication and national image building, playing an increasingly prominent role in China’s international discourse. In recent years, China-Arab co-produced documentaries—characterized by their authenticity, objectivity, and vivid narration—have significantly contributed to civilizational mutual learning and people-to-people connectivity. Anchored in the theoretical framework of civilizational mutual learning, this study examines the driving forces behind the production of these documentaries, further clarifying the development and impact of Global Civilization Initiative, international communication aspirations, construction of national image and cross-cultural communication, cultural resonance imperatives. Through the analysis of representative cases, it explores key narrative strategies including cultural hybridity, horizontal perspective, and emotional resonance. The study further identifies cross-cultural communication challenges such as audience reception gaps, contextual misalignment, and media ecosystem disparities. Finally, it proposes strategies to enhance global outreach, including strengthening localized storytelling, building multilingual communication networks, and fostering cross-platform collaboration. This research aims to offer new insights into the international communication of China-Arab co-productions and contribute to the broader discourse on cultural diplomacy and mutual understanding.

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