Recent remarks made by Mr Bilahari Kausikan at a forum on public diplomacy and published in The Straits Times have led to comments from the public on China's image.

Mr Kausikan, a former senior diplomat, has not infrequently aired his opinions in the media. His latest speech, however, is a far cry from reality and leaves an unfavourable impression of China on others. It raises the question: How should the world view and understand China? As China's global influence grows, this assumes greater importance, both for China and the rest of the world.