1- PhD in International Relations, Department of International Relations, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran.
2- Associate Professor of International Relations, Department of International Relations, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran. ,a.zargar@kiau.ac.ir
2- Associate Professor of International Relations, Department of International Relations, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran. ,
Abstract: (271 Views)
In the new era of strategic interactions between China and Africa, China’s influence on the continent has expanded dramatically. Through economic and operational proposals, China has facilitated trade and development opportunities for African countries. However, these strategic relations have also faced challenges and criticisms, with concerns about creating an unbalanced relationship between the two sides. The central question of this study is: is China's policy in Africa primarily aimed at increasing its own power, or at promoting development across the continent? The proposed hypothesis is that, although China’s significant investments in economic, construction, and infrastructure sectors mainly aim to expand its influence and strengthen its power, these efforts have also contributed to the improvement of development processes and economic growth in some African countries. This research examines the trajectory of China–Africa relations using a qualitative, analytical-descriptive approach grounded in neorealist theory. The findings indicate that China’s investments, while serving to bolster its political and economic influence as part of its broader strategic aims, have also resulted in tangible benefits such as enhanced infrastructure, economic growth, and job creation in select African nations. Nevertheless, these collaborations are accompanied by challenges, including concerns about fiscal dependence, rising debt levels, and long-term developmental instability.
Keywords: China, Africa, Strategic Interactions, Geopolitical Influence, Neorealism, National Interest, Partnership Diplomacy
Article Type: Qualitative Research |
Subject:
Arts and Humanities (General)
Received: 2025/03/1 | Accepted: 2025/05/19
Received: 2025/03/1 | Accepted: 2025/05/19
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