The Real Story of China in Africa: Discussion with Deborah Bräutigam

Professor Deborah Bräutigam discussed her new book, The Dragon’s Gift: The Real Story of China in Africa, at the offices of Jones Day in New York. The book examines Chinese aid and state-sponsored economic engagement in Africa. China’s aid in Africa is based on mutual benefit – and goes far beyond a popular western misconception of a simple effort to extract oil and other strategic natural resources, regardless of other considerations. China views Africa as an evolving landscape presenting many opportunities. Through diverse infrastructure projects, bilateral trade partnerships and investment, China demonstrates that helping African countries also develops local business and commerce.

Dr. Bräutigam teaches in the International Development Program at American University’s School of International Service in Washington, D.C. She has lived in Asia and Africa as a Fulbright researcher and consultant for the World Bank, the United Nations, and other development agencies. She is the author of Chinese Aid and African Development (1998), Aid Dependence and Governance (2000), and co-editor of Taxation and State-Building in Developing Countries (2008).

Politics & Foreign Relations

Recorded 2/9/10