China's Relations with Africa: A New Era of Strategic Engagement

Since Xi Jinping's accession to power in 2012, China's relations with Africa have grown significantly, with Beijing increasing its resource allocation, military cooperation, technological investment, educational and cultural programs, and political influence. This book examines the full scope of contemporary political and security relations between China and Africa, arguing that Chinese leaders' priorities have elevated Africa's importance among policy makers in Beijing. It marshals extensive and compelling qualitative and quantitative evidence of the deepening ties between China and Africa, considering the future of the relationship.

Format: Hardback
Length: 504 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2023
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Since Xi Jinping assumed power in 2012, China's relations with Africa have undergone a significant transformation. Beijing has increased its resource allocation to African countries, expanding military cooperation, technological investment, educational and cultural programs, and extending its political influence. This comprehensive book explores the multifaceted political and security relations between China and Africa. David H. Shinn and Joshua Eisenman delve into the specific tactics and methods employed by Beijing to establish strategic partnerships with African political and military elites. They contextualize these relations within China's broader geostrategic objectives, highlighting the priorities of Chinese leaders, such as the conflation of threats to the Communist Party with national security, the growing emphasis on relations in the Global South, and the desire to counter U.S. hegemony.

The book spans a wide range of areas, including diplomacy, propaganda, arms sales, space cooperation, and the increasing presence of the People's Liberation Army Navy in African ports. It relies on extensive qualitative and quantitative evidence, drawn from two decades of systematic data and hundreds of surveys and in-person interviews. Shinn and Eisenman provide a fresh perspective on the current state of China-Africa relations and offer insights into the potential future trajectory of these ties.

One of the key findings of the book is the growing importance of Africa in Beijing's foreign policy. The authors argue that Chinese leaders view Africa as a strategic partner in countering U.S. influence and promoting China's global interests. This is evident in the increasing number of high-level visits, trade agreements, and investment projects between China and African countries.

The book also explores the complex dynamics of China-Africa relations, including the challenges and opportunities that both sides face. On the one hand, China offers African countries access to capital, technology, and expertise, which can help to promote economic development and infrastructure building. On the other hand, concerns have been raised about China's authoritarianism, human rights, and environmental practices, which have led to criticism and resistance in some African communities.

The authors argue that the future of China-Africa relations will be shaped by a range of factors, including the evolving global political landscape, the changing priorities of African countries, and the evolving relationship between China and the United States. They suggest that while China's influence in Africa is likely to continue to grow, there may also be opportunities for African countries to leverage their strategic partnerships with China to promote their own interests and achieve greater independence.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable contribution to the study of China-Africa relations. It provides a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of the complex dynamics and evolving priorities driving these relations. By examining the specific tactics and methods employed by Beijing, as well as the broader geostrategic context, the authors offer valuable insights into the future of China-Africa relations. This book will be of interest to scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex and rapidly changing relationship between China and the Global South.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231210003