Japanese PM Abe Was a Big Proponent of Engagement With Africa, What Happens Now That He’s Stepping Down?

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who announced last week that he will step down for health reasons, was an enthusiastic proponent of a robust African engagement strategy. In particular, the prime minister advocated for a trade-led foreign policy with Africa that was highlighted at the Japan-Africa (TICAD) summits that are held every five years.

One of the not-so-subtle undertones of the past two TICAD summits was presenting Japan’s industry-focused development finance model as an alternative to China’s state-led approach.

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by Eric Olander

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