The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation: a Strategic Opportunity

A fuller understanding of FOCAC as a mechanism for advancing such a China-Africa win-win relationship

Research on China's African engagement has increased significantly in recent years and covers a wide range of topics and issues. While much of this research has been critical of China`s activities on the continent, few observers have attempted to analyse or understand China's policy towards Africa and the specific diplomatic framework (FOCAC) constructed by China to advance dialogue, problem solving and mutual benefit. FOCAC forms the central pillar in advancing China-Africa relations and is the arena for constructive diplomatic interaction. It provides the foundation for building a long-term 'win-won' China-Africa relationship. A fuller understanding of FOCAC as a mechanism for advancing such a China-Africa win-win relationship and for building positive South-South relations is required to advance the China-Africa research agenda. This monograph seeks to provide this understanding of FOCAC.

About the authors

Garth Shelton holds a PhD in International Relations from Wits University. He is Director of the East Asia Project at Wits University and lectures on Asian studies in the Department of International Relations at Wits. He has published widely on topics relating to China, Japan and Korea.

Farhana Paruk holds a MA in Political Studies from the University of South Africa. She was previously Senior Researcher, China–Africa Project at the ISS.