ABSTRACT
This chapter is divided into three parts. It first starts with a discussion of the Western factor in China's African engagement. The second part looks at Western criticisms of China's African foray. The third part examines China's response. The United States (US) and European powers have been a factor in China's relations with African countries since the mid-twentieth century. The chapter argues that while China has found some niches and effectively mobilized its diplomatic, cultural and financial resources to pursue its interests, China has failed to design a grand strategy towards the continent. To serve its interests in the region while avoiding diplomatic and strategic confrontation with the Western powers on a broad range of controversial issues, China has constantly made adjustments to achieve a delicate balance between ensuring a reliable supply of resources from Africa to fuel its burgeoning economy and maintaining relations with Western powers.
