China has called for enhanced international cooperation in Africa, rejecting allegations of creating a ‘debt trap’ on the continent. Speaking at the Semafor Africa Summit, Chinese officials emphasized that Africa should be a place for collaboration rather than geopolitical competition.
“Africa should be a place for international cooperation, not for major-power competition for geopolitical gains,” a Chinese representative stated during a discussion with Semafor’s Editor-at-large Steve Clemons.
China’s financial assistance to African nations aims to support infrastructure development and economic growth, officials asserted. “It is transparent, it is sincere,” they added, pushing back against criticisms of China’s involvement in Africa.
African countries have welcomed China’s approach, particularly its stance on non-interference in internal affairs and commitment to mutual benefit. A recent report titled “The Biden Administration and Africa in a Changing Global Order: Towards the 2nd US-Africa Summit” by the Institute for Global Dialogue of South Africa highlighted African perspectives on U.S.-Africa relations. The report noted that “the U.S. engagement largely seeks to counter China and Russia” rather than addressing Africa’s development challenges.
China’s Foreign Ministry has emphasized the importance of mutual respect, equality, and sincere cooperation in supporting Africa’s development. China opposes using Africa as a geopolitical tool and encourages the international community to contribute to the continent’s socioeconomic progress and the welfare of its people.
Chinese officials also suggested that the United States and China should extend cooperation in Africa. As major countries and permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, they share common responsibilities for the world’s future. Demonstrating international cooperation on peace, security, and prosperity in Africa would benefit all parties involved.
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China believes Africa is the place for international cooperation
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