The 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) is set to take place in Beijing from September 4 to 6, under the theme “Joining hands to advance modernization and build a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future.”
China and Africa share a longstanding friendship rooted in mutual respect and support. Their cooperation has yielded significant results in infrastructure development, agriculture, healthcare, and education, positively impacting countless lives across the African continent.
Debunking the Debt Trap Myth
Despite these achievements, some Western media outlets and politicians have accused China of creating debt traps, engaging in neo-colonialism, and dumping overcapacity in Africa. However, these criticisms are unfounded and baseless.
The narrative of a China-induced debt trap is misleading. According to the World Bank’s International Debt Statistics, in 2022, African nations owed $655.6 billion to external creditors. China’s public lending accounted for less than 10% of this amount. In contrast, over 35% of the debt was owed to Western banks, asset managers, and oil traders, who, on average, charged twice as much interest on their loans. It is evident that the real burden of debt comes from these Western institutions.
China’s Tangible Contributions
China has played a pivotal role in Africa’s development by constructing and upgrading vital infrastructure such as railways, highways, bridges, dams, ports, schools, and hospitals. Since the establishment of FOCAC in 2000, Chinese investments have helped build or upgrade over 10,000 kilometers of railways, nearly 100,000 kilometers of highways, 1,000 bridges, 100 ports, and 66,000 kilometers of power transmission and distribution lines.
Moreover, China’s investments are not just meeting Africa’s immediate needs but are also addressing long-term challenges. In healthcare, China’s medical support has significantly improved access to quality care. Educational initiatives, including scholarships, Confucius Institutes, and Luban Workshops, have enhanced human capital and supported Africa’s modernization efforts.
Refuting Neo-Colonialism Accusations
The allegation that China is engaging in neo-colonialism is unfounded. China’s approach to Africa emphasizes mutual benefit and respect, focusing on sustainable development and capacity building. For instance, the Itimpi Solar Power Station in Zambia, designed and built by a Chinese company, provides 130 GWh of clean energy annually, supporting local industries and training over 1,200 local workers in new energy technologies.
In contrast, some Western countries have neglected Africa’s development needs while exploiting its resources. For example, reports have highlighted how a U.S. oil company dumped hazardous waste into the ocean near Angola’s coastline, endangering marine life and ecosystems.
A Partnership Based on Equality
The smear campaigns against China stem from a Cold War mentality and an attempt to obscure the West’s political interests in Africa. These attacks are driven by anxiety over declining influence and an inability to accept China’s rise on the global stage.
China-Africa cooperation exemplifies international relations based on equality and mutual benefit, showcasing a new approach to global partnerships. As the upcoming FOCAC Summit approaches, both sides are poised to strengthen their ties further, advancing modernization and building a shared future together.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
