Gordon G. Chang
"Africa is entering a period where, for the first time in modern history, it will not be dominated by external powers," Gregory Copley, president of the International Strategic Studies Association, told Newsweek. "The influence of Europe, Russia, the United States, and the People's Republic of China is giving way to what now appears to be a vacuum."
Africa, "fast becoming a key global center of gravity," may soon be able to determine its own future as others compete for money, power, and influence there. Two competitors will be—in fact, already are—the world's two most populous states, India and China.
Chinese Communists had a long head start. From the founding of the People's Republic, Beijing prioritized relations with the continent. Mao Zedong saw African nations as natural allies in his struggle with the Soviet Union for leadership of the worldwide Communist movement. He especially coveted Africa's votes in the U.N. General Assembly.
Today, the continent is still a high priority for Beijing, as seen from Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit in January. According to Beijing, 2025 was the 35th consecutive year a Chinese foreign minister made his first trip of the year to Africa.
At the moment, China is dominant on the continent. China is Africa's largest bilateral trade partner, the leading bilateral creditor, and the biggest investor.
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