US plans to counter China, Russia influence in Africa: Bolton
US National Security Adviser John Bolton says the United States plans to counter the rapidly expanding political and economic influence of China and Russia in Africa.
Beijing and Moscow were using “corrupt” and “predatory” practices to gain an economic advantage over the US on the continent, Bolton said in a speech on Thursday at the Heritage Foundation in Washington.
“Great-power competitors, namely China and Russia, are rapidly expanding their financial and political influence across Africa,” Bolton said.
“They are deliberately and aggressively targeting their investments in the region to gain a competitive advantage over the United States,” he added.
The former US ambassador to the UN, who is known as a war hawk, said “predatory practices” by China and Russia stunt economic growth in Africa and threaten the continent’s economic independence.
A deterioration in US-China relations, seen most dramatically in their escalating trade dispute, is spilling over into other areas.
Beijing’s growing trade and military ties with Africa has concerned Washington. China overtook the US in 2010 as the continent's largest trading partner.
In October, US President Donald Trump signed legislation overhauling the way the federal government lends money for foreign development, creating a $60 billion agency intended largely to respond to China’s growing influence.
Chinese President Xi Jinping “Belt and Road” initiative, unveiled in 2013, aims to build an infrastructure network connecting China by land and sea to Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa.
China has already provided many countries in Asia and Africa with billions of dollars in aid and loans for roads, railways, ports and other major infrastructure projects.
Bolton had equally harsh words for Russia. “Across the continent, Russia advances its political and economic relationships with little regard for the rule of law or accountable and transparent governance,” he said.
He accused Moscow of selling arms and energy to African nations in exchange for their votes at the United Nations.
Bolton’s comments come as the US military has in recent years expanded its forces across the continent, where it reportedly has over 6,000 troops stationed.
Washington runs 34 military bases across Africa, contrary to the Pentagon’s insistence that it maintains a modest presence across the continent.
Russia launches 'ICBM' for first time against Ukraine: Kiev
US Senate rejects bids to halt military sales to Israel
US vetoes UN resolution calling for 'permanent' ceasefire in Gaza
Diplomat discourages recourse to pressure, intimidation, confrontation against Iran
UN: 2024 deadliest year for aid workers amid genocide in Gaza
Gaza health official warns of hospital shutdowns within 48 hours
Israel kills 5 more paramedics in southern Lebanon: Health ministry
Iran to launch ‘new, advanced’ centrifuges in response to IAEA resolution: AEOI
Yemen fires hypersonic missile at Israeli airbase
VIDEO | New Delhi chokes under toxic smog as air quality remains at hazardous levels
VIDEO | Press TV's news headlines
PressTV NEWSLETTER
now
This makes it easy to access the Press TV website
