The African continent has recently attracted wide media attention for frequently saying "no" to some western powers. Kenya's Daily Nation made a slashing attack on the Failed States Index 2007 released by a US magazine, which ranks 177 countries according to their "degree of stability." Among the five "most failed" nations, four are in Africa. As the most influential newspaper in Kenya, the Daily Nation accused the ranking of not being comprehensive and objective, and "sullying" developing countries - especially those of Africa.
In late August, in Cape Town, South Africa's defense minister declared that the 14-nation Southern African Development Community (SADC) had decided on the rejection of US troops by any member state; and especially opposed the establishment of the US base, "Africa Command." Zambia followed with a similar stance. Even Libya, which recently improved ties with Washington, and Algeria, currently in good terms with US, announced earlier their rejection of the establishment of the US's "Africa Command" – or of any other country's military base – on their territory.
Now let's take a look at French President Nicolas Sarkozy. After taking office he visited Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, Senegal and Gabon. In his speech in Senegal, the president attacked the slave trade vehemently, calling it an inhumane crime, and a huge mistake of colonialism. His frequent visits and reflective, self-reproaching tones were all intended to express friendship. But what was the result? Reports say that while Sarkozy was speaking; listeners from some countries remained unmoved and even displeased. The media comments that Sarkozy didn't bring tangible bilateral cooperation plans. It seems his diplomacy in Africa turned out to be mostly a failure.
Behind their rejection of Western appeals is the increasing awareness of some African countries of being united, self-reliant, and independent in diplomacy - a result of their higher international status. The African continent has, in recent years, witnessed increasing political stability and economic growth, along with an elevated international status and influence. During this process, African countries have taken more initiative in foreign policy. On the issue of the US's "Africa Command," some local media believe Washington is trying to control the African continent in military, economic, and political terms. Some African states have their own understanding of France's intentions in Africa. Due to the decline in French influence earlier in history, the return to Africa has become important in French efforts to resume its status as a power, as well as a strategic goal in Sarkozy's foreign policy.
Actually, the African stance has long been represented in the New Partnership for Africa's Development: "Africans must not be wards of benevolent guardians, but rather they must be the architects of their own sustained elevation." This shows that African countries hope to be self-reliant and build new partnerships with developed countries; and embark the continent on a journey of sustainable development.
As seen in recent years, the African continent has been blending into the international community as a united and self-reliant area; and handling their own affairs independently. External interference, be it obvious or obscure, would not find an entry into African affairs. In short, African affairs must be decided by Africans themselves.
By Shu Yunguo, professor and director of African Studies Center, Shanghai Normal University; translated by People's Daily Online
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