China-Africa ties closer, but not without risk

• Source: Global Times
• [02:49 November 09 2009]
• Comments

Emerging economies like India are also showing interest in the continent, which is rich in resources and has vast market potential.

China's achievements in Africa during the past decade deserve a big hand, but let us hold the applause until the complexities and nuances of China- Africa ties are fully understood and the potential risks mitigated.

The Western media often distorts China-Africa relations as a replica of the colonial relationship that existed for centuries between Africa and the West.

But the development of the China- Africa relations has proved and will continue to prove these media outlets wrong.

As more overlapping interactions take place around the world, real respect and understanding are required not only between China and the West, but also between China and developing regions like Africa.

The legacy of altruism and brotherhood toward Africa is something that Chinese really need to cherish and carry on.

Only when offered a trustworthy hand of friendship can Africa become "Africa for Africans," and for the world.