Biden visits Angola: Can the US counter China’s influence in Africa?

Biden visits Angola: Can the US counter China’s influence in Africa?

In a historic move, President Joe Biden has made his first official visit to Angola, marking the first time a sitting US president has traveled to the African nation. This visit is significant not only because it is Biden’s first state visit to Africa since taking office, but also because of the strategic importance of Angola in the context of US-China relations.

Amid growing concerns about China’s increasing influence in Africa, Biden’s visit to Angola is seen as a key diplomatic maneuver to counter Beijing’s expanding presence on the continent. China has been heavily investing in Angola’s infrastructure and natural resources, leading to fears of economic dependency and political influence in the region.

During his visit, Biden is expected to discuss a range of issues with Angolan President João Lourenço, including trade, security, and human rights. The US has been vocal in its criticism of China’s human rights record and its debt-trap diplomacy in Africa, and it is likely that these issues will be at the forefront of the talks between the two leaders.

As the US seeks to strengthen its ties with African nations and promote transparency, democracy, and good governance in the region, Biden’s visit to Angola sends a clear message that the US is committed to countering China’s influence and fostering positive partnerships with African countries. It remains to be seen how this visit will impact the complex dynamics of US-China-Africa relations, but one thing is certain: the competition for influence in Africa is heating up, and Angola has become a key battleground in this geopolitical game.

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Video “Biden visits Angola: Can the US counter China's influence in Africa? | DW News” was uploaded on 12/09/2024 to Youtube Channel DW News