Beijing's Response to Bolton's Remarks on Russian and Chinese Influence in Africa

John Bolton, the U.S. National Security Advisor, announced on Thursday, December 13, that the United States intends to counter the economic and political influence of Russia and China in Africa. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry responded to Bolton's criticisms by emphasizing that Beijing will continue its 'friendly cooperation' in Africa regardless of others' comments. Bolton labeled Russia and China as 'powerful rivals of the U.S.' who, according to him, are expanding their economic and political influence in Africa through methods involving 'corruption' and 'looting,' pushing the U.S. aside in this competition. Speaking at the Heritage Foundation, Bolton stated, 'China uses methods such as bribery, unconventional agreements, and strategic debt manipulation to ensnare African countries, placing them under Beijing's control.' He also leveled similar accusations against Russia, stating, 'Russia is expanding its political and economic ties across Africa without regard for the rule of law, accountability, and transparency.' Bolton added, 'Moscow, as always, uses the sale of weapons and energy carriers in exchange for votes from African countries at the United Nations.' According to Bolton, these 'votes' keep 'powerful militaries' in African governments, undermine peace and security, and contradict the core interests of African nations. The U.S. National Security Advisor described the 'predatory actions' of Russia and China as hindrances to economic growth in Africa and threats to the economic independence of these countries. Relations between Beijing and Washington have cooled in recent months over trade tariffs and commercial relations, which have raised concerns for the global economy under the banner of a trade war or tariff war. Additionally, Washington and Moscow have had various disputes in recent months, with disagreements over missile treaties being the latest point of contention. Lu Kong, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, stated in Beijing in response to these remarks, 'China's cooperation with Africa has been aimed at helping the development of the continent and has been widely praised.' According to this spokesperson, what Beijing pursues in Africa is precisely what the development process of Africa truly needs, such as agricultural modernization. Lu Kong emphasized, 'China will continue its friendly cooperation and activities in Africa regardless of what others say.' In part of his speech, Bolton announced a special U.S. program to support investment and the growth of the middle class in Africa without providing details. Bolton's special attention to this continent comes a year after Donald Trump, the U.S. President, referred to several African countries and Haiti as 'shithole countries' in the presence of some members of Congress, suggesting that the U.S. should prefer immigrants from countries like Norway. Trump's remarks faced backlash from the African Union, which called the U.S. President's comments 'offensive and racist' and demanded an official apology from Trump. Since taking office, Donald Trump has not visited Africa.