The struggle of major powers for the African continent continues. The USA, France, Turkiye, Russia, and China are trying to expand their cooperation with African countries year by year. Among these countries, France is lagging behind. Despite the fact that Paris has tried for many years to protect its political and military interests in Africa, in recent years, African countries have been gradually distancing themselves from French control. The changing governments in African countries do not wish to remain colonies of France.

Axar.az reports that this is noted in the analysis of the "Atlas" Research Center.

It is stated that China is trying to fill the gap created in Africa, more than others:

"Africa has become a critical arena for Beijing in terms of military and security strategy outside China's borders. The establishment of a Chinese military base in Djibouti and the activities of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum, covering 53 African countries, indicate Beijing’s strategic goals. The Chinese People's Liberation Army is fighting piracy off the coast of Africa with nearly 2,000 soldiers involved in 17 UN peacekeeping missions. China plans to establish additional military bases in several African countries, including Equatorial Guinea, Angola, and Namibia on the Atlantic coast. China has increased its influence over African states, including their military leaders, by boosting arms sales through multilateral forums and military education programs. However, this growing influence has raised concerns about the potential threat to the sovereignty of African countries. African nations do not wish to escape French influence only to fall under the influence of another country. China's cheap loans have become a burden for African countries, turning into debt that is difficult to repay.

China's security and military cooperation with Africa is considered a key factor in protecting its investments and infrastructure built through the "Belt and Road" initiative. Beijing has repeatedly emphasized the importance of strengthening and improving military cooperation with Africa. This cooperation is necessary to maintain the stability and security required for the success of these projects.

Thus, China’s security cooperation with African countries has revealed not only its efforts to protect economic interests but also broader geopolitical goals on the continent and its surroundings. China aims to expand its global influence and reshape the international security order. During the China-Africa Cooperation Forum held in Beijing from September 4 to 6 this year, Chinese leader Xi Jinping stated that this cooperation is important for his country. Xi emphasized that cooperation with Africa and support for the countries there would be one of Beijing’s key priorities. China’s strengthening in Africa is part of its global and regional competition strategy with the United States.

China has provided African countries with various types of military equipment, including aircraft, ammunition, armored vehicles, artillery, drones, electronic surveillance systems, rockets, and radar. These items were sold to African countries at reasonable prices. In addition to military sales, China has expanded officer training programs with African countries. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, between 2019 and 2023, China exported weapons to 21 African countries. According to the institute's report, currently, 70% of the armed forces of African countries use Chinese military equipment."