Development, Security, and China’s Evolving Role in Mali

The idea that development produces security and peace is prominent in China’s engagement with Africa. The construction of critical infrastructure like roads or railways is often framed by Beijing as a show of the Communist Party of China’s commitment to peace and stability in the continent.

Not much give from China in its relationship with Africa

Despite a warm African response to the recent ‘Extraordinary China-Africa Summit on Solidarity Against Covid-19’, not much new came out of the virtual meeting. Crucially, there was no movement on cancellation of the $150bn in concessional loan debt.

Debt Relief with Chinese Characteristics

As China is poised to become the world’s largest creditor, concerns about debt sustainability have grown. Yet considerable confusion exists over what is likely to happen when a government runs into trouble repaying its Chinese loans.