China is not often a forerunner when it comes to dealing with foreign crises. However, in recent months it seems China has awoken from her usual regional focus. With President Hu currently touring Africa, China is at the forefront of stabilizing efforts in Sudan. And for good reason: nearly half a million barrels of oil are imported directly from Sudan on a daily basis.
As China's hunger for resources grow, it realizes it needs to pursue active diplomacy in resource rich countries. After trade deals with Venezuela, China has shifted its attention to Africa, where it can buy influence cheaply. While Europe and the US have chosen to focus their attention on areas other than Africa first, China has been very active indeed. For a deeper look at some of the factors at play, please have a look at "Africa: China's Training Ground."
With the EU and the US distracted elsewhere, let us hope China's influence can be a force for bringing peace and stability to the region.
As China's hunger for resources grow, it realizes it needs to pursue active diplomacy in resource rich countries. After trade deals with Venezuela, China has shifted its attention to Africa, where it can buy influence cheaply. While Europe and the US have chosen to focus their attention on areas other than Africa first, China has been very active indeed. For a deeper look at some of the factors at play, please have a look at "Africa: China's Training Ground."
With the EU and the US distracted elsewhere, let us hope China's influence can be a force for bringing peace and stability to the region.
