Africa

Beijing’s policy of “non intervention” was championed by African leaders looking for economic growth without political preconditions. As Africa’s politics change, is the policy obsolete?

China has sought to bolster its ties to South Sudan while not damaging its longer and closer relationship with the north.

Climate change along with illegal, unreported and overfishing could disturb a vital balance in the Indian Ocean.

With an eye on oil, China has been keen to court Chad. Ties are a microcosm of Beijing’s Africa role.

Africa was once dismissed by some as the “hopeless continent.” But healthy economic growth has had some nations’ leaders looking east for inspiration.

India has been a latecomer to Africa. But with an eye on China, it has been boosting trade and bilateral ties.

Beijing must recognize the consequences of its engagement in countries where peace is fragile and act accordingly. But the West also has a mixed record.

China’s investment in Africa is far more nuanced than cozying up to dictators. Rather than indulging in alarmism, the West could learn something.

With little in the way of force projection, China’s dependence on natural resources in unstable parts of the world could undercut its economic ambitions. There are limits to freeriding.

He Wenping, director of African Studies at Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, discusses non-intervention.

He Wenping, Director of African Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, discusses China’s role in Africa.

The Diplomat’s David Cohen will speak with China in Africa expert He Wenping. Please send your questions.