China Strengthens Influence in Africa

By Joe Cash

BEIJING (Reuters) – China’s top diplomat began his annual New Year tour of Africa on Sunday, continuing a 35-year-long tradition to quietly enhance Beijing’s significant influence across the resource-rich continent as Europe’s presence wanes and America’s fluctuates.

While global capitals anticipate the return of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s engagements in Namibia, the Republic of Congo, Chad, and Nigeria underscore China’s consistent commitment to Africa amidst distractions for European leaders. Analysts note this engagement reflects China’s strategic aim to bolster financial support for debt-laden African nations, seeking critical minerals agreements and expanding markets for its exports.

Eric Orlander, co-founder of the China-Global South Project, stated, “The decision on which countries to go to each year rarely follows any external logic, but… resonates in Africa as a reminder of China’s consistent commitment.”

Guo Jiakun, spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, emphasized, “Africa has never been a forgotten continent, but rather a source of vitality and development potential.”

As China’s economic growth slows, Africa offers a critical outlet for its state-owned infrastructure firms, looking for projects amidst local government budget constraints. Additionally, it serves as a market for Chinese electric vehicles and solar panels, where the U.S. and EU cite over-capacity issues.

Africa’s 50-plus votes at the United Nations could facilitate Beijing’s ambitions to reshape multilateral institutions and global norms, especially concerning human rights.

Current U.S. President Joe Biden’s December trip to Angola marks his only sub-Saharan Africa visit during his presidency, in contrast to China’s prioritization of the continent in its diplomatic agenda.

Hannah Ryder, founder of Development Reimagined, mentioned, “China has become central to Africa’s policy, as an actor and an inspiration,” reflecting how candidates for the African Union Commission position highlight Beijing’s potential to improve the continent’s manufacturing and educational capabilities.

Security Issues

Wang’s visit to the Republic of Congo, which is co-chairing the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) this year, signifies China’s dedication to fulfilling promises made at last year’s summit, including $51 billion in new financial aid. Analysts suggest that China is also increasing its role in addressing pressing regional security issues, which explains Wang’s trip to Chad.

With France withdrawing its military from Central Africa after ending a defense cooperation pact, China is perceived as a reliable partner for the region’s new military governments. Orlander noted that for Western powers, China’s influence is viewed as controversial, contrasting with perspectives from African nations.