The China-Africa summit 2024, held September 4–6, is a key occasion in Beijing’s strategy to expand its influence in Africa. At the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), President Xi Jinping will receive leaders from at least 53 African states, excluding Taiwan-aligned Eswatini.
China wants to strengthen its economic and political presence in Africa. Industrialization, agricultural development, security, and the Belt and Road Initiative, which builds infrastructure worldwide, will be discussed at the summit. The conference showcases China’s dedication to a “high-level China-Africa community with a shared future.”
Beijing sees more than diplomatic relations at the conference. It’s a chance to invest heavily and improve access to lithium, copper, and cobalt, which China needs for its tech and renewable energy sectors. China wants to protect resources and expand its global economy.
In contrast, African leaders will seek clarity on unmet summit commitments and lobby for local benefit from Chinese investments. China is Africa’s greatest commercial partner and borrower, investing $191 billion since 2006, yet it is criticized for environmental and debt diplomacy issues.
The summit will shape China-Africa ties by balancing shared interests with the challenges of such a large and complex alliance.
Image Credits: https://moderndiplomacy.eu/2024/09/04/2024-china-africa-cooperation-summit-a-new-chapter-in-a-historic-partnership/
