ABSTRACT
The relationship between China and South Africa represents many features of emerging states and newly industrialised countries (NICs), such as resource conflicts, South-South cooperation, and regionalism. South Africa, as the single 'superpower' on the continent, is included among the association of five major emerging national economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS), with expectations to serve as a bridge between fragile states and developed states politically, economically, and diplomatically, and serve as a representative for sub-Saharan and south African countries. This chapter starts with a brief background on China-South Africa relations. Then it discusses three influential factors, such as, China's national interests, South Africa's demands, and international expectations, to explore to what extent China's policy can help South Africa. The chapter describes China's capability to be responsible in South Africa. It also explores the actors and contexts which could affect China's role in South Africa, from both South Africa's and China's perspectives.
