XU Hua

(№.2,2013)

Abstract: The goal of national image strategies is to promote publicity on the outside as well as to meet domestic needs on the inside. For any country, it is of equal significance to strive for support and identity from its nationals and for recognition from international community. A good national image can bring about charisma to the nationals and make the nationals have a sense of pride and sacredness whenever mentioning their country and believe in their country’s dreams and goals, willing to fight for them and hence increasing social cohesion. Russian nationals’ attitude towards the national image reflects the results of Russian social reform and transition to some degree. Focusing on the nationals’ attitude towards their country’s image and treating it as a touchstone for good social governance are of great importance to Russian social development and soft power construction.

Key words: Russia; national image; soft power