China-Africa: Between development aid and neocolonialism

Beyond the mutual support between the People's Republic of China and African states on the international scene, the two partners, in addition to having shared a common history, have maintained exchanges dating back to ancient times. If today China presents itself as the leading figure in trade with Africa, it is mainly because of its policy, which is almost opposite to that of traditional partners. Wen JIABAO already confirmed this position when he stated that China does not want to export its own value and development model. However, African states seeking ways and means to initiate their socio-economic development should not be hypnotized by fine speeches and beautiful achievements. After all, no cooperation is a priori advantageous or disadvantageous. It is up to African leaders to find adequate ways and means to make cooperation beneficial to the local population. This book highlights the peculiarity of the People's Republic of China's Africa policy through the ambivalence that characterizes it.