Source: the Economist Intelligence Unit ViewsWire

African heads of state gather for a summit in China

This week's summit in Beijing between the Chinese government and the leaders of more than 40 African countries has drawn attention to the increasingly important role that China is now playing on the continent. It is unclear whether this role is mutually advantageous, however. Investment inflows are often beneficial, but China is being accused of undermining Western attempts to improve governance and reduce corruption in Africa, while at the same time ignoring environmental standards. China's influence also carries other risks, particularly if these countries' economies over-specialise in satisfying soaring Chinese demand for commodities.

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Posted by pichu at November 3, 2006 10:12 PM