Beyond Trade: China's Cultural and Political Relations in Africa – Joshua Eisenman

In Pursuit of Development

China's burgeoning relationship with the African continent has been characterized by significant economic investment, trade, and infrastructure development, with China emerging as Africa's largest trading partner and a major player in the continent's evolving economic landscape. In recent years, we have seen an influx of Chinese involvement in African industries ranging from mining and construction to manufacturing and retail. This has been accompanied by an ambitious drive to develop Africa's infrastructure with projects that span roads, railways, ports, airports, and telecommunications networks. But the ties between China and Africa extend far beyond economics. We're witnessing a dynamic cultural exchange, burgeoning diplomatic activities, and even aid and military support. However, these activities have not been without controversy, igniting debates over so-called debt-trap diplomacy and resource exploitation.

Joshua Eisenman is an Associate Professor of Politics in the Keough School of Global Affairs at the University of Notre Dame. His research focuses on the political economy of China’s development and foreign relations with the United States and the Global South —particularly Africa. Together with David Shinn, Josh has recently co-authored a new book entitled: China’s Relations with Africa: A New Era of Strategic Engagement. @Joshua_Eisenman

Key highlights

• Introduction – 00:24
• China and an alternative world order – 03:20
• The quest for soft power – 10:40
• Debt burdens and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) – 15:10
• Revamping the BRI – 18:11
• Why “debt-trap diplomacy” is misleading – 24:10
• China’s growing relational power - 30:14
• Increasing the voice of the Global South – 39:57
• New forms of Chinese multilateralism – 45:53

Host

Dan Banik (@danbanik @GlobalDevPod)

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