China's foreign policy has so far followed a clear pattern: economic aid is followed by political influence. And then? In Djibouti, Beijing's next step is apparent. The state of the Horn of Africa could serve as a template for many other countries.
By Michael Radunski
China is the most important bilateral donor for developing and emerging countries. A research team led by the Institute for the World Economy has now been able to analyze 100 Chinese loan agreements to developing countries for the first time. China.Table was given advance access to the underlying study. The Chinese contracts contain "unusually far-reaching secrecy clauses" and ensure Beijing priority over other creditors in the event of insolvency. Some contract clauses even allow Beijing to "potentially influence" the policies of debtor countries. Despite strict contractual clauses, Beijing regularly grants debt rescheduling and deferments.
By Nico Beckert
The new submarine internet cable "Peace" is supposed to be able to transport the equivalent of 90,000 hours of Netflix movies – per second. It is currently being laid from China via Pakistan to France and Africa – and is causing friction in Chinese-American relations. The question is: Who controls global data traffic?
By Ning Wang
Since China has been active in Africa, Europe has also been working on new concepts for the continent. It's about time. First of all the EU must change its trade agreements with Africa. Because they offer Africa no incentives.
By Antje Sirleschtov
