Encouraged by China’s ‘go abroad’ policy, government financial support, growth in both consumption and in resource demand, and by the need for external assistance to foster African economic development, the China-Africa relationship has entered a new phase in 2010. In the first quarter of the year, trade and investment activity has increased further. A series of high level official visits—to include three senior Chinese officials visiting 11 African countries, and trips by Zimbabwean and South African leaders to Beijing—has increased mutual political affinity and strengthened bilateral relations. By Jackie Li.
Total China-Australia trade grew by 9% y-o-y in 2009, and the first quarter of 2010 was characterised by the signing of multi-billion trade contracts, iron ore negotiations and investment deals. With the resumption of free trade discussions, Beijing and Canberra have reaffirmed their commitment to the development of a strategic framework that will be supportive of both economies. By Barbie Co.