“Tianxia” Cosmovision and the “new” China’s Military Presence in Africa
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15847/cea51.50235Keywords:
tianxia, Global Security Intiative, FOCAC, China-Africa military cooperation, China-Africa, Community with Shared Future for MankindAbstract
The tianxia (天下) cosmovision has resurfaced as part of the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) political discourse. As Beijing attempts to reframe it as the “Community with Shared Future for Mankind,” China has viewed Africa as key partner in creating a new world order, which includes a comprehensive military strategy aimed at ensuring the sort of global harmony that safeguards its interests abroad. The present article seeks to clarify the historical and philosophical origins of tianxia, how it is reflected in China’s foreign policy, particularly about its evolving relations with Africa and how a “new” Chinese military strategy for Africa is being developed. Focusing on historical data and current investments in key communication, logistical and broader technological sectors, this paper shows how China places itself at the center of a novel order and how it will impact the African continent presently and in the future.
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