China and North Africa Since World War II

This manuscript examines Sino-North Africa relations on a bilateral level since World War II. It highlights the depth of China's involvement in the region with each country on a five dimensional approach: energy security, trade relations, political relations, arms sales/security cooperation, and cultural relations. Regarding each of these criteria, North Africa holds a strategic significance to China's national security, vital interests, territorial integrity, sovereignty, regime survival, and economic prosperity. China has been an integral part of the political developments on North Africa political scene since the early 1950s. It has supported the region's quest for independence and national liberation, exchanged diplomatic recognition with the region and established political partnerships the region. Apparently, the peoples of the North Africa, Africa at large are enthusiastic about China's role in the region. However, China's heavy involvement in Africa in the oil sector, minerals, fisheries, corporate-practices and its unconditional support to autocracies in the continent is mobilizing some resentment over China's intentions in the region. Some intellectual trends are currently equating China with imperialism and neo-imperialism. Therefore, to ensure equitable relations with Africa, China and its corporations should refrain from colonial practices, exploitation and environmental degradation. China also needs to contribute to the process of development, industrialization, development, and stability in the region. Otherwise, its presence might not endure in comparison to British, French, Spanish or Portuguese presence in the continent.