Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Though some African liberals and Western countries criticize China’s approach to Africa, the continent also could present an opportunity for Washington and Beijing to cooperate. The United States and China have many overlapping interests in Africa, including preventing failed states, assuring a steady supply of oil and gas, and fighting disease.
One month ago, foreign policy conservative Shinzo Abe became Japan's prime minster. But instead of inflammatory nationalistic rhetoric, Abe has signaled a warming to China. If he fails to continue his early progress, in a part of the world becoming increasingly dangerous, Tokyo and Beijing might not have another chance for reconciliation.
This book examines the strategic balance in Asia and the increasing levels of trade and interdependence in the region, assessing the implications for the United States.
China has quietly reoriented its foreign policy to emerge as a new advocate of soft power. It's all part of an international charm offensive that could threaten U.S. interests abroad, but could also – if properly exploited by other nations – transform the Asian giant into a more responsible member of the world community.
In a short period of time, China has become a major donor and investor in Africa, and it has begun to play a major role in domestic African politics. In fact, China has so quickly amassed power in Africa that it now rivals the United States, France, and international financial institutions for influence - and potentially damages Africa's economic and political renaissance.
Hu Jintao’s recent visit to Australia was in stark contrast to President Bush’s visit, just a few days earlier. Where Bush was greeted with protests in a country which has been a staunch U.S. ally, Hu toured Australia like a hero. Josh Kurlantzick explains the difference in an article in Commentary.