Analyzing China’s Strategic and Geopolitical Policies in Africa

Authors

  • Sayed Ahmad Shafi Sadat Department of International Relations, Faculty of Law and Political Science, Jami University, Herat, Afghanistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61438/bsrqj.v3i2.171

Keywords:

China, Africa, Strategy, Geopolitics

Abstract

In recent decades, the decline in the West's exclusive dominance over Africa, coupled with the rise of emerging powers, has positioned China as a significant actor in the region. This shift prompted critical inquiries into the objectives, nature, and implications of China's expanding presence in Africa. Although Beijing invests substantially in infrastructure, energy, mining, and technology, its policies also suggest a broader geopolitical strategy. In this context, examining China's policies in Africa is crucial, as part of its broader efforts to reshape the international order. The central question of this article is: What are the underlying objectives of China's strategic and geopolitical policies in Africa and how can these be interpreted in the context of the evolving global order? The hypothesis posits that China's approach to Africa is not merely economic, but is designed to foster interdependent relationships, diminish Western influence, and enhance China's geopolitical influence. This study employs an analytical-explanatory method that utilizes library resources and reliable online data sources. The findings indicate that by concentrating on infrastructure development, financing major projects, and expanding its political and cultural presence, China seeks to consolidate its position as a geopolitical power in Africa. Nevertheless, these strategies encounter several challenges, including debt crises in host countries, geopolitical competition, and internal instability, all of which may affect the sustainability and effectiveness of China's strategic agenda.

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Published

2025-05-21

How to Cite

Sadat, S. A. S. (2025). Analyzing China’s Strategic and Geopolitical Policies in Africa. Baharestan Scientific Research Quarterly Journal, 3(2), ۲۷-۵۱. https://doi.org/10.61438/bsrqj.v3i2.171