China has never relied on official diplomatic means to exert influence abroad. Instead, it operates a vast, “shadowy” network of “united front” organizations in countries around the world including the United States. This network forms an integral part of China’s overseas propaganda apparatus, cooperating closely with Chinese government agencies in Beijing and with Chinese embassies and consulates abroad. Its chief aim is asserting mainland Chinese territorial claims, particularly on Taiwan, under the deceptive banner of China’s “peaceful reunification.” Other aims include controlling Chinese citizens overseas and suppressing international criticism of China’s poor human rights record.