Just as China promoted domestic growth by combining state intervention with private investment, it is now applying this same policy strategy to countries across Africa. The results have been impressive, and the United States and others would do well to start paying attention.
So far, China has pursued a relatively understated role in stabilizing Afghanistan. But security and trade concerns are causing Beijing to build up its ties with Kabul -- a growing relationship that may have long-term implications for U.S. strategy.
Despite widespread fears about China's growing economic clout and political stature, Beijing remains committed to a "peaceful rise": bringing its people out of poverty by embracing economic globalization and improving relations with the rest of the world. As it emerges as a great power, China knows that its continued development depends on world peace -- a peace that its development will in turn reinforce.
