China expands its influence in Africa

China is often viewed as being an isolationist nation, but there is further evidence that it is attempting to expand its influence globally. With economies in Europe and the US still struggling, China has pledged $20 billion to Africa for infrastructure development, the New York Times reports.

A two-day meeting between 50 African nations held in Beijing just concluded as trade between China and Africa reached an all-time high. However, not all participants were rushing to increase ties with the Asian giant. South Africa’s President Jakob Zuma issued a warning that in the long-term close relations with China were “unsustainable.”