The U.S. may have mastered the notion of soft power. But if there is one thing we can say about the world’s No. 2 economy it is this: those guys in China sure know how to imitate. China’s proposed Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is soft power at it best.

As One Belt, One Road initiatives are based on China and other countries involved in the projects working closely together and sharing commercial and other benefits, Beijing needs to ensure friendly relations with its neighbors and regional powers.

One of Africa's leading economies and the world's largest developing country continue to forge even stronger trade, investment and cultural ties that will define the long-term relations of the two nations.

Only in recent years has Russia begun to pay attention to soft power, and develop the tools that might help convey a positive Russian image abroad. In the meantime, China and the United States have developed their own presence in the region, and the Kremlin has seen a decline in Russian language use in the region.

The Asia Centre brings three Japanese dance troupes to communicate, connect and collaborate with Bangkok audiences. "Dance Dance Asia" has selected 10 Japanese street dance troupes to join the project in the first year, Khun Yo says.

China's national image has been improving over the past few years, with President Xi Jinping becoming a highlight, according to a survey report.