3.9

• Why has China increased involvement in Africa?

  To meet resource demands from economic growth; focuses on trade and infrastructure investment (e.g. railways).
• How significant is China’s role in Africa’s economy?

  By 2015, China was Africa’s largest trading partner, with $60B in FDI, impacting sectors like mining, agriculture, IT, and banking.
• What are some consequences of China’s involvement in Africa?

  Positive: Employment & infrastructure (6,000km railways/highways, 20 ports, 80+ power plants).Negative: Environmental concerns (pollution from steel/cement industries).
• How much did China-Africa trade grow by 2024?

  Reached $296 billion, averaging a 5% annual increase from 2015.
• Why are there tensions between China and Taiwan?

  Since 1949, both have claimed to be China’s legitimate government; China sees Taiwan as a province, not a separate state.
• What causes tension in Tibet?

  Tibetans seek political/religious independence; China rejects the Dalai Lama and encourages ethnic Chinese migration.
• Why do China and Japan have a tense relationship?

  Historical grievances (US military in Japan, Cold War capitalism), despite strong modern trade ties.
• What fuels tension between China and India?

  Border disputes, military presence in the Himalayas, and China’s close ties with Pakistan; India also eyes the South China Sea.
• How has global power shifted due to emerging powers?

  Economic centre is shifting to India and China by 2050; emerging powers now invest in developed countries.
• What is China’s ‘One Belt, One Road’ initiative?

  A strategy to boost trade and cultural links from China to Eurasia and Africa, creating a single economic zone.
• What regions are targeted in the ‘One Belt’ and ‘One Road’ plan?

  One Belt: Russia, Mongolia, Central Asia → EuropeOne Road: SE Asia, India → Middle East, East Africa
• How widespread is China’s BRI diplomacy?

  Over 150 countries and 30 international organisations have signed cooperation agreements.
• What recent development occurred with Panama and China’s BRI?

  In Feb 2025, Panama withdrew from its 2017 BRI agreement due to US pressure and strategic concerns over the Canal.
• What political tensions exist in the Middle East?

  Many Muslim countries oppose Israel, and US support for Israel complicates its role in the region
• What causes economic tensions in the Middle East?

  The region’s vital oil reserves and conflicts like the rise of ISIS in Iraq, threatening energy security.
• What are environmental consequences of conflict in the Middle East?

  Damage to oil infrastructure, e.g. from the 2003 Iraq invasion, leads to environmental harm.