United States President Joe Biden is embarking on his first-ever bilateral trip to Africa as president, visiting Angola to counter China’s influence on the continent. The two-day trip will focus on a critical minerals infrastructure project at the Lobito Port, key for US trade with Angola. Biden’s delayed visit to Africa has raised questions about the US’s priorities on the continent, especially as China has become Africa’s largest trade partner.
The visit to Angola comes at the end of Biden’s presidency, as he seeks to establish a legacy in Africa. Analysts point out that US influence on the continent has been waning, while China and Russia have increased their presence. The White House released an ambitious Africa strategy document in 2022, shifting from trade relations to advocating for African leadership roles on international platforms.
The Lobito Atlantic Railway project, a US-backed initiative, will upgrade the rail network in the Lobito Corridor to facilitate the export of cobalt and copper from the Democratic Republic of Congo to the West. This project is crucial for the US as it competes with China for access to critical minerals. Biden’s visit also aims to strengthen ties between Angola and the US, highlighting the close relationship between the two countries.
However, Biden’s visit to Angola has been criticized for overlooking alleged human rights violations under President Joao Lourenco’s government. Despite efforts to deepen trade relations, concerns remain about corruption and crackdowns on dissent in Angola. As Biden fulfills his promise to visit Africa, the future of US-Africa ties remains uncertain, with challenges posed by competing influences and access to critical minerals.
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