Africa–China Cooperation: Potential Shared Interests and Strategic Partnerships?

Abstract

This paper explores the nuances of Africa–China relations, focusing on Chinese presence in Africa and its impact and potential for African development. Combining the perspectives of international relations, knowledge and technology transfer, and global value chains with FDI and institutional views, we analyze China-Africa cooperation’s current outcomes and suggest the path(s) forward toward Africa’s industrialization. The paper reconciles China’s Belt and Road Initiative, Africa’s Agenda 2063, and FOCAC consultations to build a common ground for improving Africa-China cooperation, especially regarding knowledge transfer toward African countries and the realization of the African continental free trade area, integration, and infrastructure development.