Africa-China relations: Symmetry, soft power and South Africa

Abstract

Africa-China relations have not reached an apogee but they have gathered steam. Two important issues within this are whether the relationship between the two parts of the world is symmetrical or asymmetrical and the exact role of soft power in this constellation. This paper takes positions on these arguments and proposes that prominent economies on the African continent such as South Africa have an important role to play in ensuring a symmetrical relationship in which Africa can also take part in a symmetrical cultural diplomacy with China, such as in the setting up of Mandela Institutes in China.