Adhering to the principles of mutual respect, amicable negotiation, equality and mutual benefit, Confucius Institutes shall develop and facilitate Chinese language teaching overseas and promote educational and cultural exchange and cooperation between China and other parts of the world.

By the June 2009, 282 Confucius Institutes and 272 Confucius Classrooms had been established in 83 countries and regions around the world. As each institute took advantage of their own strengths and uniqueness, the efforts they have devoted in various teaching and cultural activities have been warmly accepted by the local people. Thus they have become a place for foreigners to learn Chinese language and culture as well as understand modern China.