The latest China-Africa summit, known as the Forum on China-Africa Co-operation (Focac), has underscored China’s unwavering influence across the African continent. Delegations from over 50 African states attended the gathering, alongside UN chief António Guterres, highlighting China’s non-partisan approach in an increasingly polarized world.
China has pledged $50.7 billion in funding for the next three years, focusing on green energy transition, infrastructure development, and industrialization. President Xi Jinping emphasized China’s commitment to building a “shared future” with Africa, announcing 30 clean energy projects and cooperation in the nuclear sector.
While China’s economic self-interest and pursuit of natural resources remain evident, African governments appreciate Beijing’s readiness to engage without political strings. The summit’s focus on green technology and industrialization signals a potential shift in China’s approach, but it remains to be seen if this will translate to concrete action.
Critics argue that China’s lending practices have contributed to Africa’s debt crisis, and the new financing pledge raises concerns about unsustainable debt. Defenders of China’s approach point to its willingness to finance and build projects that other partners have shied away from.
China’s ambitions to become a key partner for Africa in hi-tech industry and green technology may signal a new era of cooperation. However, it remains to be seen if this will amount to a fundamental change in the China-Africa relationship or merely a continuation of traditional infrastructure development focus.
