In her upcoming appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee, 2020 Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris is expected to address China’s influence in Africa, the country’s debt distress, and how the United States can offer a more effective support to Africa.
Since coming to office, President Donald Trump has faced criticism for his unfamiliarity with the region and his pro-Saudi, anti-Congolese stance. In the absence of data or reliable reports, it’s difficult to understand Beijing’s motivations for such actions. Statements made by Trump regarding Africa and the continent – such as his claim that China contributed more to the continent’s economic turmoil than any other country -fuel skepticism of his sincerity in wanting to improve the continent.
This lack of understanding will likely be Harris’ focus when she discusses China’s influence in Africa, as she has made a priority of fighting corporate assistance in the developing world. She has long advocated forboycotting the country, and this latest statement could be an indication of her next steps.
The country’s debt distress is another threat to China’s investments in Africa, as it stands to lose out on revenue if the debt crisis becomes more widespread. The United States could provide greater support to African countries by reaching out to them for deeper loans, as well as by engaging with China on debt issues. In order to restore trust and prevent bailout-hungry countries from winning China’s favor, the issue of debt must be broached more seriously.
How Kamala Harris”>should discuss Chinese influence in Africa
Chinese influence in Africa:
Kamala Harris should discuss Chinese influence in Africa during her term as the Vice President of the United States. Africa is a continent rich in natural resources, and China has been investing heavily in the region over the years to strengthen its political and economic ties with African countries. However, this investment has been criticized as a form of neo-colonialism, as China’s investment activities have been accused of causing environmental destruction and exploiting labor forces.
- Firstly, Ms. Harris should address the environmental impact of Chinese investment in African countries. China has been known to finance large infrastructure projects such as roads, railways, and ports that cut through virgin forests and disrupt wildlife habitats.
- Secondly, she should discuss China’s exploitation of African labor forces. Reports have emerged that Chinese companies operating in Africa treat workers unfairly and pay wages lower than local standards. Additionally, some Chinese businesses have been accused of importing their own labor forces instead of hiring from the local population.
Overall, Kamala Harris should discuss the economic and social impact of China’s investment in Africa. Her goal should be to promote policies that are mutually beneficial to both Africa and China and ensure that Chinese investment is sustainable and does not exploit the continent’s natural resources and rich culture.
1. Kamala Harris and the Chinese Influencing System in Africa
The United States Vice President-elect Kamala Harris has always been vocal about the Chinese influence in Africa, and her views on Beijing’s geopolitical ambitions in the continent have been consistent throughout her career. She has repeatedly spoken about the debt-trap diplomacy of China, which entails offering loans to developing countries that accumulate massive debt, eventually putting them at the mercy of the Chinese government. This approach has been detrimental to the economic independence of several African countries, shifting the power dynamics in favor of Beijing.
With Harris’ appointment as the VP-elect, there has been a renewed focus on the Chinese influencing system in Africa. The Chinese presence in the continent is evident through their infrastructure, investment, and loans to African countries. African leaders have been criticized for accepting China’s economic assistance, which often comes with strings attached. However, there are many who argue that China’s engagement with Africa has led to considerable economic benefits and that the United States needs to do more to compete with China’s increasing influence in the continent.
- Pros
- Increase economic partnerships
- Sell more imports and exports
- Cons
- Accumulation of massive debt
- Loss of economic independence
2. Kamala Harris’ Relationship With Beijing
Kamala Harris, the first female and person of color to hold the position of Vice President of the United States, has been a vocal critic of Beijing’s actions. Here’s what you need to know about her relationship with China:
- She has criticized China’s human rights record: Kamala Harris has been an outspoken critic of China’s human rights abuses, particularly regarding the treatment of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang. She has called for an investigation into the reports of forced labor, sterilization, and other abuses against the Uighurs.
- She supports trade negotiations with China: While Harris is critical of China’s actions, she also recognizes the importance of the U.S.-China economic relationship. She has stated that she supports “smart negotiations” with China to promote fair trade practices and protect U.S. jobs.
Overall, Kamala Harris has taken a measured approach to the U.S.-China relationship, being critical of China’s actions, but also recognizing the importance of maintaining a productive economic relationship. As Vice President, it remains to be seen how she will navigate this complex relationship.
3. Kamala Harris’oadERA Plan in ChinaAST
As part of her foreign policy plans, Kamala Harris has outlined her approach to addressing the ongoing human rights abuses in China. Her OADERA (Offensive Actions to Defend Economic Rights and Assets) plan includes the following steps:
- Working with allies to pressure China to end its oppression of the Uighur Muslim minority
- Supporting Taiwan’s independence and defending it against Chinese aggression
- Using economic tools like trade tariffs to ensure a level playing field for American businesses competing with Chinese companies
Harris recognizes the importance of engaging with China, the world’s second-largest economy, but she believes this engagement must come with clear boundaries and consequences for bad behavior. By taking a firm but measured approach to China, she hopes to both protect American interests and promote human rights and global stability.
- Pushing for an independent investigation into the origins of COVID-19
- Supporting democratic movements in Hong Kong and elsewhere in China
- Promoting fair labor practices and environmental standards in trade agreements with China
Overall, Kamala Harris’ OADERA plan in China reflects her belief in a nuanced approach to foreign policy that engages with other countries while prioritizing American values and interests. Whether or not she becomes Vice President, her approach to China is likely to have a significant impact on US foreign policy in the years to come.
1. Kamala Harris and the Chinese Influencing System in Africa
Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, has been at the forefront of highlighting the alarming influence of the Chinese system in Africa. This has been a significant cause of concern for the United States, as China’s economic and military strategies have been perceived as a global threat.
The Chinese influencing system in Africa has been built on a foundation of strategic investments in key sectors, grants, and loans. It has allowed China a significant level of economic and political influence in the continent, which has been exploited to gain geopolitical power. Such Chinese influences range from the construction of artificial islands in disputed territories to the militarization of civilian facilities in Africa.
- China’s Belt and Road Initiative has been a critical tool in the Chinese influencing system in Africa.
- Chinese-funded railways and highways have aided trade and infrastructure development across Africa, often in exchange for access to natural resources.
- The Chinese government’s investment in key African sectors, such as tech, telecoms, and e-commerce, has facilitated the adoption of Chinese-made technologies in Africa.
The Chinese influencing system in Africa is not without controversy, as it has been accused of imposing non-democratic norms and creating a sense of economic dependence on China, dangerous to Africa’s economic and political future. The United States under the leadership of Kamala Harris has committed to supporting African countries to diversify their economic partners while maintaining their political and economic independence.
One of the critical ways that the United States has stepped up to challenge the Chinese system’s influences is by offering support for democratic and transparent governance. This can enable African governments to negotiate deals that meet the needs of their citizens, instead of being beholden to the interests of foreign powers. Only through such commitments can Africa have a sustainable and prosperous future.
- Kamala Harris’s approach highlights the criticality of empowering local communities to pressure their leaders towards democratic practices that reflect their needs.
- The United States is committed to working closely with African countries in projects aimed at promoting economic and social development, strengthening health systems, and fostering innovation.
- As Kamala Harris continues to highlight the Chinese influencing system in Africa, measures must be implemented to halt the expansion of Chinese influence and empower African states to determine their future independently.
2. Kamala Harris’ Relationship With Beijing
Since Kamala Harris became Vice President of the United States, many have questioned her relationship with Beijing, particularly considering China’s human rights abuses and increasing aggression towards Taiwan. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Biden’s China Policy: Harris has stated that she fully supports President Joe Biden’s China policies. In February 2021, the White House released its Interim National Security Strategic Guidance which listed China as America’s “biggest geopolitical test”.
- Beijing’s Stance: Officials in China one day praised Harris in the media and repeatedly wished her success as the first female Vice President. The next day, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin dismissed criticism from Harris, calling it “irresponsible and groundless slander”.
Beyond these statements, there have been few indications of Harris’ personal relationship with Beijing. However, given China’s standing as a global superpower, relations between the two nations will undoubtedly continue to play a key role in Harris’ role as Vice President.
3. Kamala Harris’oadERA Plan in ChinaAST
3. Kamala Harris’ Border Plan in China
As a part of her roadmap for America’s foreign policy, Kamala Harris has put forward her blueprint for the United States’ engagement with China. Her plan, called the “China Strategy,” focuses on a range of issues that are critical for the US economy and national security, like trade, technology, and human rights.
- Trade: Harris’ plan calls for a recalibration of US-China economic relations to ensure that American companies and workers are not disadvantaged. This means using trade agreements that are enforced with transparency, strong protections for American intellectual property, and environmental and labor standards.
- Technology: The plan emphasizes the need for investing in research and data infrastructure to keep the US at the forefront of technological progress. In addition, the proposal calls for strengthening the CFIUS (Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States) to safeguard against forced technology transfers
Moreover, Harris has expressed the need to work with allies to build a coalition of countries to push back against China’s growing influence and human rights abuses. Harris’ plan lays out a vision for a “values-driven” foreign policy that is focused on promoting democratic values and advancing the best interests of the United States.
On Wednesday, Kamala Harris will field questions from reporters in Beijing on her new role as the United States attorney for California. She’ll be discussing her work on the China influence, debt distress in Africa, and more.