The strategy adopted by China with respect to Africa, a few years ago, has borne fruit with the ever-strengthening ties between the two sides. The relationship has been further cemented by frequent visits of top Chinese leaders who have taken pains to reiterate their commitment to help Africa develop despite the global economic crisis and irrespective of the political climate and the policies of the leaders ruling the various African countries. China has been dealing with Africa as a whole, with a common agenda for all places within the continent. The notion that China was only interested in the mineral rich nations is not quite correct as aid has crept in the other countries as well. The visit of President Hu Jintao to Mali, Senegal, Tanzania and Mauritius is a case in point. The Chinese policy has seen it acquire much needed natural resources, using its dollar surpluses at a time when the dollar has been badly hit and China has found itself in a strong bargaining position. Its acquisitions are silently piling up and when the world economies finally recover from the recession China will be comfortably placed with a major chunk of the world’s natural resources under its belt, including the ever-scarce oil.

From the African point of view, its trading relationships have also seen a sea change. From trading mainly with the west, its focus is shifting towards Asia, and the Asian region is likely to be its largest trading partner in the years to come. Five African nations presently account for 85% of the trade with Asia, but with changing economic policies, more countries will be able to participate in these spiraling figures. African goods are seeing increased demand from Asian nations, and cheaper Chinese goods have found huge markets in Africa. However, both sides need to follow rigorous quality control measures to ensure that the levels of trade are sustained. Price becomes irrelevant if quality is compromised.

That Africa has benefited from the Chinese interest is proved beyond doubt. Its infrastructure has been developed through Chinese aid, and its countries are seeing schools, hospitals, roads and railways after years of poverty stricken struggles. There is increased flow of technological skills and know how from China in industry, mining and other sectors. In agriculture the Chinese model is being replicated in Africa.

Source : Chinafrica