Opinion: EU, US Losing Africa & Latin America to China

The Facts -

European Leaders Scramble for African Mineral Supplies Amid Ukraine Conflict

Following the Ukraine conflict, European leaders have realized their dependency on China's critical mineral supply chains. In response, they have rushed to Africa to invest and establish independent supply chains.

Despite efforts, European investments and diplomatic relations with African countries lag behind China's. This has led to surprise and concern among Europeans, who are puzzled by the lukewarm reception from African nations.

China's Rising Influence in South America Challenges US Dominance

In South America, China has become the leading trading partner and foreign investor with many countries traditionally dominated by the United States. Beijing is expanding its influence economically, politically, and militarily in the region.

Symbolizing this shift, Chinese President Xi Jinping received a warm welcome in Brasilia and Lima. In Peru, Xi inaugurated the first phase of a Chinese-funded deep-water port in Chancay, a $3.5 billion project set to revolutionize trans-Pacific cargo shipping, evoking memories of the Inca empire's greatness among some Peruvian commentators.

US Response to China's Growing Presence

In contrast, retiring US President Joe Biden attended the Apec meeting in Peru with nine Black Hawk helicopters for anti-drug efforts and used train donations for Lima's metro. This offers a stark choice for President Dina Boluarte between economic growth prospects and American-style drug war initiatives.

Compounding the issue, the upcoming Donald Trump administration has already threatened action against the port, suggesting a 60% tariff on goods passing through it, further straining US-South America relations.

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