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China and Africa

9 February 2007

Speaking to Channel 4 News on Thursday 8 February after an official visit to Malawi and South Africa, Secretary of State for International Development Hilary Benn said that the UK warmly welcomes China's relationship with Africa - as a trader, because trade between China and Africa is probably going to increase tenfold in the first decade of this century; as an investor, as China is investing money in roads and other infrastructure; and as a provider of development support to African countries.

Mr Benn added that he was sure that China will come to see that it has the same interests as the rest of the world in ensuring stability, fighting corruption and ensuring sustainable levels of debt in Africa. He suggested that, if China were to also support the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, launched by the UK in September 2002, it would send a very powerful signal about upholding good standards in the fight against corruption.

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