The energy dimension in the re­ lations between China and Angola

Abstract

Energy profoundly shapes global politics and economic processes. This article examines the significance of energy in the evolving relationship between China and Angola, and evaluates the efficacy of this engagement. By comparing indicators across different periods of China’s foreign policy, the study identifies a consistent increase in China’s interest in the energy sector and a growing demand for imported resources. Angola possesses abundant natural resources and seeks to leverage these assets to stabilise its economic growth and expand international cooperation. Its withdrawal from OPEC has further intensified efforts to secure Chinese investment for modernising its oil infrastructure and refining capacity. This energycentric cooperation is presented as mutually advantageous: Angola employs a strategy of securing Chinese finance, while China pursues a strategy of augmenting its geopolitical standing.