MAGAZINE
FALL 2021
Figure 11 China and Russia ’ s Vaccine Diplomacy / Source : Biospectrumindia
Africa , being more of a means rather than an end for Chinese strategic planning , must be considered as another geopolitical arena to monitor Chinese foreign-relations practices ; providing insight on its practices in more strategic geographies . Therefore , it is important for analysts to monitor all spheres of Chinese presence in Africa and understand its global implications on NATO members and partner countries .
China ’ s approach in Africa in diplomatic , information , economic and military ( DIME ) spheres are as follows : Diplomatic
• The desired end state for diplomacy has been to receive African countries ’ political support in the United Nations for pursuing its own near-abroad political agenda ( African nations constitute the largest voting bloc in the United Nations ). The main objective so far has been to become African countries “ partner of choice ”, and gain leadership role in shaping Africa ’ s future . In order to achieve that , China ’ s officials have been developing close relationship with top local authorities for years , providing political support for authoritarian regimes , giving out developmental aid since the mid-20th century , conducting high-level visits and summits and , in the last year , providing COVID-19 support .
• Africa has been a means for China to exercise grand , strategic level diplomacy , and is an easy ground in terms of foreign relations without conflict and too many resources invested .
• Recognition of “ One China ” concept is stated as the fundamental for building relations with African countries .
• Open state-to-state dialogue with countries that have not yet established ties with China .
• China , pursuing active diplomacy , currently has 52 embassies and 5 consulate generals ( 24 percent increase since 2013 ).
Information
• Africa ’ s 1.3 billion population is expected to reach 2.1 billion by 2040 , passing some of mostly populated countries like India and China . Africa ’ s consumer base , technology consumption , and media reach are likewise expected to grow enormously , while consumers leapfrog landline infrastructure and jump straight to digital mobile technology . The population growth is expected to be led by middle class and therefore , media is and will continue to be important to successfully and sustainably penetrate into the continent .
• Currently , China ’ s media approach in Africa , has been to actively push positive aspects of China ’ s involvement in Africa rather
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