The African Union (AU) held discussions on the pros or cons of Africa’s relations with China, Friday 18th of January at AU headquarters in Addis Ababa. The theme “The Chinese Presence in Africa: An Opportunity or an Obstacle to the Development of Africa?” was at the centre of discussions during the Second Session of “Fridays of the Commission”.
The “Friday of the Commission” is aimed at promoting the comprehension of the globalization process and its consequences on African economies, as well as throwing light on economic policies and strategies proposed to African countries by international financial institutions. The “Fridays of the Commission additionally seeks to be a forum of giving and receiving, and an opportunity to exchange ideas on different issues than what AU traditionally focus upon.
Three experts in the domains of international relations and economic issues in Africa were participating discussants on the session. Mr Adama Gaye, Dr Harry Broadman and Dr J.C. Alden were the discussants. Staff members of the Commission, the United Nations institutions, African and non-African diplomats in Addis Ababa; researchers, academicians and students of universities in Addis Ababa, were among the participants at the debate. The Norwegian Embassy was represented at the discussions.