Treasure fleets as diplomatic power

Were the Chinese treasure fleets mainly giving away gifts?

No. Gifts supported diplomacy, but the voyages also pursued trade connections, finance, and Chinese political pre-eminence.

Diplomatic gifts should not be mistaken for disinterested generosity. The fleets established connections and demonstrated Chinese influence, while gifts formed one part of a purposeful exchange. Pursuing trade, finance, and pre-eminence made the voyages instruments of statecraft without making them uniquely sinister. Maritime display, commerce, and diplomacy worked together.