Chinese leader Xi Jinping is embarking on a three-day state visit to South Africa to strengthen Beijing’s influence among developing nations. This visit, which also includes a summit with leaders from the BRICS emerging economies, marks Xi’s second international trip this year – a stark contrast to his pre-pandemic globe-trotting diplomacy.
Xi’s last international venture was in March, when he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, reaffirming their strategic alignment against the United States. The South Africa summit provides a crucial opportunity for Xi to advance his vision of a more multipolar world.
The BRICS bloc – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa – represents over 40% of the global population and desires a more significant say in international affairs. This aligns with Xi’s aspiration to reshape the world order into a Sino-centric one.
China’s ambassador to South Africa, Chen Xiaodong, hailed BRICS as a platform for cooperation among emerging nations and a force for international fairness and justice. With traditional global governance systems showing incapacity, BRICS is gaining strategic significance.
Xi’s visit coincides with a meeting between US President Joe Biden, the Japanese Prime Minister, and the South Korean President to counter rising threats from China. The US, Japan, and South Korea deepened military and economic cooperation during the summit, criticizing China’s behavior in the South China Sea.
Amidst the intensifying rivalry between China and the United States, BRICS holds greater relevance for Beijing. However, Xi’s visit also occurs during a challenging period domestically. China’s economic recovery from COVID-19 lockdowns is faltering, compounded by a property crisis, local government debt, and deflationary pressure.
The youth unemployment rate, reaching consecutive record highs, presents a significant challenge. Economic constraints limit China’s ability to extend generous aid packages to developing countries. The public’s growing skepticism about lavish spending abroad adds to the complexities.
Despite economic limitations, China has increased political and military engagement in Africa. Low-cost, high-impact initiatives such as party engagement, Confucius Institutes, and military training showcase China’s continued interest in Africa.
Xi’s visit is significant as his first trip to Africa in five years. His previous visit in 2018 included multiple African countries. This time, he will focus on co-chairing the China-Africa Leaders’ Dialogue with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during the BRICS summit.
As China grapples with economic challenges and navigates global dynamics, Xi’s journey to South Africa reflects the aspirations and constraints of a nation aiming to maintain its global presence and influence.
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