Dr. Denghua Zhang

Biography

Denghua Zhang is a senior research fellow at the Australian National University, specializing in Chinese foreign policy and foreign aid, particularly its implications on relations with Pacific Island countries. He completed his PhD at ANU, focusing on the dynamics of Chinese foreign aid and trilateral aid cooperation. His research contributions have been published across prestigious journals including the Australian Journal of International Affairs, International Relations of the Asia-Pacific, and the Journal of Pacific History. Notable works include the 2023 article 'China's Motives, Influence, and Prospects in Pacific Island Countries' and the award-winning article 'China's Influence on Local Perceptions in Pacific Island Countries' published in 2022. Additionally, his book 'Cautious New Approach: China’s Growing Trilateral Aid Cooperation' was recognized among ANU Press' top ten new releases of 2020. Through his supervision of research students, Zhang actively engages in projects related to Chinese foreign aid and its growing influence in the Pacific region, contributing significantly to the body of knowledge in international relations and development studies.

Research Interests