CIA Releases Recruitment Video Targeting Chinese Officials

On February 12, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) unveiled a recruitment video designed to instruct officials from the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on how to engage with U.S. intelligence agencies.

Entitled “Save the Future,” this cinematic piece follows a PLA officer reaching out to the CIA, motivated by a desire to uphold his values and secure a better future for his family, according to an official familiar with its production.

The video illustrates scenes where less qualified party members replace experienced officers, with the PLA officer witnessing the detrimental impacts of corruption and instability on his loved ones and colleagues before deciding to make contact with the CIA.

The official noted that the officer’s challenges resonate with many PLA members who perceive a disconnect between China’s elite and those who endure the fallout from their leadership’s missteps.

The message is framed to resonate with the officers’ sense of duty, urging them to “defend the police” and prioritize their commitment to the people of China.

In Mandarin with Chinese subtitles, the video portrays connecting with the CIA as a commendable and patriotic act. It concludes with the statement, “I was a soldier. I served to protect my fellow man. The path I chose was how I wanted to serve.”

One official emphasized the goal of empowering Chinese officials, stating that they need not feel powerless.

“Save the Future” follows a previous recruitment video from May, which educated Chinese dissidents on how to reach out to the CIA for a more promising future. Together, these videos have garnered over 35 million views.

CIA Director John Ratcliffe mentioned that the May video resonated with many Chinese citizens, and “Save the Future” aims to reach PLA officers seeking ways to enhance their lives and contribute positively to their country.

“We are committed to offering avenues for cooperation between Chinese officials and the U.S.,” Ratcliffe stated.