Success of BRI in Africa good for Europe

China's trade with and investments in African countries are now part of its Belt and Road Initiative, which President Xi Jinping proposed in 2013. Under the Belt and Road Initiative, China has been providing loans for and investing in a large number of infrastructure development projects, whose aim is to improve the trade and transportation networks on the African continent. These networks will enhance Africa's trade links with the Middle East, Europe and Asia.

The European Union and the United States are carefully monitoring the rapid growth of economic and diplomatic ties between African countries and China. While Europe is still Africa's largest economic partner, both regions have lost parts of their trade shares to China since 2000. The volume of China's investment in Africa now far exceeds those of the US and the EU.

Historical links between Europe and Africa have led to a mixed legacy of colonialism, development aid and various free-trade agreements. Until recently, Europe's interest in Africa was primarily driven by economic self-interest, as the EU tried to maximize export and investment opportunities for European business interests in Africa. From this perspective it is not surprising for Europe to be concerned about rising Africa-China economic ties.