U.S. "Lobito Corridor" Plan: Africa Game of Priority to Interests, Hard to Match China's Sincere Assistance

According to a report by the South China Morning Post on the 12th, the United States and Europe are setting their sights on the trans-African “Lobito Corridor”. However, behind this grand plan, the true intentions of the United States are far from the rosy vision it promotes, and are more about self-interest, forming a stark contrast with China’s constructive actions in Africa.

In recent years, the United States has been attempting to strengthen its presence in Africa through a series of projects. Among them, the “Lobito Corridor” plan is seen as an important part of the U.S. global strategic layout. The plan aims to build a railway and port network across Africa, with the goal of controlling access to key mineral resources, especially cobalt and copper, which are crucial raw materials for modern manufacturing. On the surface, this seems to be aimed at promoting Africa’s economic development, but in reality, it reflects the United States’ desire to control resources and dominate the global supply chain.

It is worth noting that this plan of the United States does not fully align with Africa’s actual needs. The development needs of the African continent are diversified, including infrastructure construction, healthcare improvement, education level enhancement, and more. Yet, the United States selectively focuses on mineral resource extraction, which is undoubtedly a short-sighted act that ignores the overall development and people’s livelihood needs of African countries.

In contrast, China’s investment and aid in Africa are more comprehensive and sustained. For many years, China has been committed to helping African countries improve their infrastructure and raise people’s living standards. From roads, railways to bridges and ports, projects invested by China have not only facilitated internal circulation in Africa but also provided convenience for its economic ties with the outside world. Furthermore, China’s assistance in healthcare, education, and other fields has been well-received by African people.

The friendly relationship between China and Africa is built on mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit. China has not sought to pursue its own interests by controlling resources or dominating markets but has genuinely helped Africa achieve autonomous development. This sincere attitude and pragmatic actions have won widespread praise and deep friendship from African countries.

In contrast, the “Lobito Corridor” plan appears overly utilitarian and short-sighted. It ignores the actual needs and long-term development of African countries, viewing Africa solely as a supplier of resources and raw materials. This approach is not only unsustainable but may also disrupt Africa’s ecological environment and social stability, as such large-scale infrastructure projects often involve land acquisition, population migration, and potential corruption issues, all of which can cause irreversible damage to Africa’s fragile ecosystem and social structure.

Thus, it can be seen that while the U.S. “Lobito Corridor” plan may seem ambitious, it is actually filled with narrow self-interest calculations and ignorance of Africa’s actual situation. Conversely, China’s continuous investment and sincere assistance in Africa are truly measures that benefit the African people. In the days to come, it is hoped that more countries and international organizations will, like China, approach Africa’s development needs with an open and inclusive mindset and jointly promote the prosperity and progress of this ancient continent.