China's Diplomatic Philosophy is endearing to African states

“China beats the west to win respect by Kenyans”. This is the news title that appeared recently on a local daily Kenyan newspaper. According to a survey conducted across the country by consumer insight Kenya, China has emerged as the main source of inspiration for Kenyans. This must be the case for the rest of Africa as these kinds of headlines are repeated across African dailies.

Africa traditionally looked to the west for inspiration. However, Since China entered the fray; the tide has slowly shifted in China’s favor to a point where the west is almost totally eclipsed from the main arena of things diplomatic. China’s secret lies in its diplomatic philosophy that endears to African states.

Whereas in International relations, states relate to each other based on national interests, perceptions and philosophical thinking plays a big part in shaping their foreign policies. Philosophy provides the theoretical guidance for foreign relations, while activities of foreign affairs are a practice under the guidance of diplomatic philosophical theory.

Different countries have different philosophical foundations for foreign affairs that shape their policies on world situations and international relations. As Africa becomes more assertive in the International arena, it responds accordingly to the various diplomatic philosophies towards it. An analysis of the west’s diplomatic philosophy in general as well as towards Africa explains why African States and the African people are turning to China.

The United States conforms to pragmatism and cherishes the values of freedom. It proclaims that the current world order is problematic and it will not acquire security if it retreats within its own borders. Despite complaints against anti-terrorism laws and interference, it has remained firm and unapologetic. “We will choose to act confidently in pursuing the enemies of freedom.  Every step toward freedom in the world makes our country safer, so we will act boldly in freedom’s cause”. This is America’s diplomatic philosophy that signifies domination, unilateral actions and inequality in relations.

The Germans uphold rational and technical philosophy. They believe that globalization, Democracy and European civilization, together with western values; economic, social and political system is good for the entire globe. German leaders have famously proclaimed that NATO has become a global alliance of public interest and that it should be used as a political instrument for making the world a secure environment. This sends shivers to every African leader and ordinary Africans who have seen the fall of regimes through military interventions. 

Russian leaders put forward that, in dealing with foreign relations, Russia is returning to “realism from Idealism”; giving more consideration to the interests of Russia and its International Image. This new philosophy has improved Russia’s image in Africa, especially when they have opposed sanctions targeting poor African countries.

French leaders’ philosophy is more of diversity in international exchanges and multilateralism. This has made it difficult for African states to predict it responses to international matters. However, its involvement in the ousting of Libyan ex-dictator Muammar Gaddafi has seen it labeled a rogue power by its critics in Africa.

China’s history and evolution has always had a bearing on Africa. For thousands of years, it had a reputation of a civilized country that upholds harmony and propriety. Its history resonates with Africa and its quick rise in stature offers great lessons and inspiration to African states. Its history of being colonized by various powers, poverty stricken and isolation have shaped its diplomatic philosophy. An important ideological foundation is the cultural tradition centering on “harmony and conformity” in today’s world outlook. 

China’s success in Africa is an indication that it has a sober understanding and a clear assessment of the international situation, especially with regard to Africa. In terms of policy guiding exchange with African countries, China’s diplomatic philosophy is expressed as friendly, based on mutual respect and win-win cooperation. Its major success lies in the principle of equality, non-interference and mutual development. 

China’s activities in Africa and local attitudes have been well documented by Deborah Brautigam’s book, the dragon’s gift. Brautigam observes that Africans are generally receptive to China’s developmental approach. That Africans approve one developing country helping another, “the poor helping the poor”; they value the longstanding connections built over decades with their Chinese partners; and they feel that China shows them far more respect than paternalistic Westerners.

China is putting forward proposals for a harmonious world, a just world with no wars and power politics. It claims that it seeks international political democracy as opposed to domination, fairness and justice, observance of international conventions and friendly and harmonious existence between countries. Whether or not China is genuine in its calls, the general diplomatic philosophy is the catalyst for its success in Africa.