China in Africa: An AFRICOM Response

Abstract

Abstract : recent expansion of Chinese activity in Africa has raised several concerns, ranging from control over energy resources exploitive economic practices and support of rogue or corrupt regimes, perpetuating instability and undermining international pressure for reform. These issues, however, represent only a fraction of China's broadly based engagement in Africa. In fact, the most egregious examples of China's behavior commonly cited are unsustainable and even counterproductive its long-term interests in Africa. China's involvement is thus evolving, as government and ever more influential business interests in that nation recognize the advantages of political and economic stability in Africa. These interests support U.S. security in Africa, encouraging more effective governance and mitigating grievances against the status quo. Consequently, in the furtherance of its mission to promote a stable and secure African environment, the newly established U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) would do well support the productive, responsible activities of Chinese actors in Africa. In its inaugural white paper on Africa, China's African Policy, issued in January 2006, China identified its general principles and objectives as Sincerity, friendship and equality; Mutual benefit, reciprocity and common prosperity; Mutual support and close coordination; Learning from each other and seeking common development; and The one-China principle . . . [as] the political foundation for the establishment and development of China's relations with African countries. somewhat nebulous nature of these 'objectives' (with the exception of the One-China principle) and the fact that they were intended for an international audience necessitate the examination of China's actual activities with respect Africa in order assess the practical meaning of these and the degree which they have been achieved.

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