China and Peru Put Out Feelers

On the heels of an April 28th free trade agreement, the first Chinese business delegation, consisting of petrochemical and energy companies, arrived yesterday in Peru to explore partnership opportunities. For influence strategists, the newsmaking visit is a window onto playmaking.

So what plays might the Chinese delegation run on its Peruvian jaunt?

Diplomatic and business protocol advises against offending your host, so provocative strategies, many from the Luring or Attacking sub-classes of The Playmaker's Table, are of course off the table. Safe plays will be the modus operandi of both delegations during the trip.

What's a safe play?

Expect to see bland Fiat -like pronouncements of 'increased cooperation and a promising future.' These are safe plays that don't rock the boat. Also, expect to see polite Filters that capture the upsides of increased relations -- and ignore the downsides -- between the two countries.

As savvy playmakers know, there's always an alpha play (a.k.a., an overarching strategy) that serves as the influence objective.

For now, the Chinese and Peruvian delegations are in assess mode, employing the cautious Trial Balloon as their alpha play. They'll feel each other out, make temporary arrangements, and consult The Playmaker's Process to decide what the next step should be. (We will, at least.)

Have you run a play in the Middle Kingdom. Have you had one run on you? Drop us a line.

Posted by John Koval

Photo Credit: andina.com