When it comes to "hard power," the West is in steep decline..."Europe has become so enamored with soft power that it has stopped investing in hard power. In terms of hard security, it makes Europe a free rider." Strong words from someone who has been deeply committed to keeping transatlantic ties strong.

“Since last year, we have partnered with NGOs like World Vision to sink boreholes in the affected areas so that residents can have enough water for their livestock and domestic use. We also encourage them to use the water to grow vegetables and maize to complement livestock keeping.”

The Confucius Institute at the University of Arizona is proud to present the first Annual Chinese Culture Festival September 22-30, 2012 in Tucson. From Chinese medicine, martial arts, and tai chi to poetry, movies and music, Tucsonans are guaranteed a rich cultural experience.

The Anholt-GfK Roper Nation Brands Index is a major annual study which since 2005 has polled a sample equivalent to 60 percent of the world’s population on its perceptions of other countries. It shows that South Africa’s 2010 World Cup, although it was a resounding success, damaged the country’s standing quite severely.

The worry of the people in the field of Internet being used for political purposes and military purposes by the American side is in the minds of very important countries. For example China, Russia and some others have proposed international code of conduct for information security.

For Chinese companies hoping to make a splash in the international market, the most efficient way to expand and grow abroad is to take advantage of the soft power - that is, the branding, technology and management skills - overseas rivals can offer.

Our exchanges are one of the best ways we can do that. Study abroad for American students puts our own young people into direct and meaningful contact with those populations. It allows them to form lifelong ties and form enduring networks. That vibrant flow of exchange students creates a bridge – between our country and other nations.

The American Music Abroad program sends American bands overseas to engage with audiences and communities, especially underserved youth. The program builds on Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton’s vision of “smart power,” which embraces the full range of diplomatic tools, including music, to engage people and create opportunities for greater understanding.