China-Africa ties “best in history” claims Xi, as Beijing steps up military aid

Chinese President Xi Jinping declared that China’s relationship with Africa is at its "best in history" during a major speech, as he unveiled a substantial financial commitment and military aid package for the continent.

Addressing delegates from over 50 African nations at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Xi emphasized the need for China and Africa to unite to become a “powerful force” in advancing peace, prosperity, and progress, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

Xi’s announcements included a pledge of $50 billion in support over the next three years, combining credit funds, assistance, and private investment from Chinese companies.

This pledge surpasses the $30 billion promised at the previous forum in Dakar, Senegal, but falls short of the $60 billion pledged in 2015 and 2018. Xi also committed $280 million in additional aid, split between military and food assistance, signaling China's increasing focus on security in its African relations.

The $140 million allocated for military aid marks the largest such contribution made by China at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, underscoring the growing importance of security in its strategic partnership with African nations. Xi’s previous military aid commitments included $100 million to support the African Standby Force and the African Capacity for Immediate Response to Crisis.

The forum, which has been described as China’s largest diplomatic event in years, saw prominent leaders like South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa and Nigeria’s Bola Tinubu attend. While Xi’s speech outlined plans for cooperation in infrastructure, trade, security, and green development, it did not address Africa’s existing debt challenges, including those owed to China.

The renewed focus on security is part of China’s broader strategy to strengthen its role in Africa, particularly in light of increasing competition from the US and Europe. Xi’s speech framed China’s support as part of a shared vision for a “global security initiative,” reflecting Beijing’s desire to reshape global security dynamics away from the Western-dominated model.

Xi’s visit also highlights China’s strategic interests in Africa, including its military base in Djibouti and its concerns about securing mining operations on the continent. Analysts suggest that while China plays a significant role in UN peacekeeping, it remains cautious about direct involvement in regional conflicts, focusing instead on enhancing its security partnerships in Africa.