Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (Two Years)), 10 credits / 15 HE credits
This thesis examines the diplomatic and commercial relationship between China
and Ethiopia starting from the new millennium. In contrast to the predominant
model in literature - which explains the Chinese interest in the African context as
strictly motivated by the search of resources - the objective of this paper is to
represent the importance of geopolitics and of the market in the Sino-Ethiopian
relationship. So, after examining the recent history of the diplomatic relationship
and after investigating the strong economic ties between the two countries
(imports, exports, development aid and FDI), the thesis focuses on the OBOR project
(One Belt, One Road) in the African continent and on the growing role that Ethiopia
is playing in it. Ethiopia, starting from the early 2000s, has been able to start a
rapid growth and this period of development has been closely linked to the
intensification of the relationship with China. This thesis aims to shed light on the
contribution that this strong link has brought to both countries and on some of the
dynamics that it has configured - and that is about to embody- within the Sino-
African context. To what extent is it possible to say that China has had a decisive
impact on Ethiopia's recent growth?
2018.
Sino-Ethiopian Relations, Ethiopia-China Trade and Investments Linkages, OBOR Project, Impact of China in Ethiopia, China-Africa