The 2024 China-Africa Summit commenced in Beijing on September 4, drawing leaders from 53 African nations to discuss future cooperation between the continent and China. Hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping, the summit aims to deepen Beijing’s influence in Africa, promising more investment in exchange for access to valuable raw minerals.

The event, known as the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), runs through September 6 and focuses on themes such as industrialization, agricultural advancement, and infrastructure development. China’s Belt and Road Initiative, designed to enhance global connectivity, is also central to discussions.

China, Africa’s largest trading partner and creditor, is set to secure crucial resources like copper, cobalt, and lithium through the summit. African leaders, on the other hand, seek to renegotiate past deals and ensure local processing of raw materials, which could create jobs and boost revenue in their countries. Though China’s investments have significantly shaped Africa’s economy, there has been local resistance over environmental concerns and debt management issues. Nevertheless, Beijing remains committed to deepening its ties with the continent.

With future projects under negotiation, both sides seek to clarify the terms of cooperation for the coming years.