Embracing the dragon : African policy responses for engaging China and enhancing regional integration

Date
2011-09
Authors
Munyi, Elijah Nyaga
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch University. Centre for Chinese Studies
Abstract
Notwithstanding extensive analysis on the pros and cons of Chinese-African involvement, there has not been much in development of a collective African policy framework for economic engagement with China. This paper seeks to shift focus from the debate on the pros and cons of Chinese – Africa relations to arguing that time is auspicious for Africa to develop common policy measures to manage China and making provisional policy proposals on how to do that. The paper’s argument is twofold; first, an incipient African disenchantment over China [as outlined in the post-FOCAC 2009 AU report] provides a prod to coalesce an African ‘Chinese policy’ to manage China-Africa relations. Secondly, if widely adopted, an African ‘Chinese policy’ would not only refine a coordinated continental response to China but would also enhance consolidate regional convergence in key policy areas in Africa. This paper proposes pragmatic policies for embracing China – beyond praise or criticism.
Description
CCS discussion papers should contribute to the academic debate on China’s global rise and the consequences thereof for African development. We do therefore explicitly invite scholars from Africa, China, or elsewhere, to use this format for advanced papers that are ready for an initial publication, not least to obtain input from other colleagues in the field. Discussion papers should thus be seen as work in progress, exposed to (and ideally stimulating) policy-relevant discussion based on academic standards. The views expressed in this paper are those of the author.
The original publication is available at http://www.sun.ac.za/ccs
Keywords
China -- Economic expansion -- Africa, Africa -- Foreign relations -- China, China in Africa -- Regional disparities, Economic Diplomacy, Africa -- Economic condition -- 21st century -- Regional disparities, Regional integration, Africa -- Foreign relations administration -- China, Centre for Chinese Studies
Citation
Munyi, E.N. 2011. Embracing the dragon: African policy responses for engaging China and enhancing regional integration. Discussion Paper. Centre for Chinese Studies: Stellenbosch University.