Biden visits Angola promoting infrastructure against Chinese debt

Angola, a nation rich in resources, became the focal point of U.S. foreign policy as President Joe Biden made his first and only visit to sub-Saharan Africa during his presidency on December 3-4, 2024. The visit comes as part of a strategic initiative aimed at showcasing a major infrastructure project known as the Lobito Corridor, which seeks to transport crucial minerals from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia to the Angolan port of Lobito for export. The Biden administration emphasizes that these investments are intended to be distinct from those offered by China, which often come with high interest rates and less regard for local commitments and sustainability. By offering alternative partnerships, the U.S. aims to regain influence on a continent where China has gained considerable leverage through large-scale projects and loans. During his visit, Biden met with Angolan President Joao Lourenco, during which they discussed potential investments and coordinated efforts to improve Angola's economic landscape, a necessary step since Angola's debt to China stands at about $17 billion. According to a senior U.S. official, the nature of U.S. investments will focus on being different and more sustainable than those offered by China, which includes infrastructure funding without imposing burdensome debts on African nations. The Lobito Corridor project, which has financial backing from the U.S., European Union, and other sources, highlights the U.S.'s commitment to enhancing economic opportunities in Angola and surrounding nations. In addition to infrastructure discussions, Biden's schedule included a visit to Lobito, where he is expected to announce approximately $600 million in new investments aimed at supporting the Corridor initiative. This project intends to drastically improve transport efficiency for mineral exports, reducing the transit time from 45 days to just 45 hours. Through this initiative, the Biden administration is expressing its hope that future U.S. presidents will see the value of continued engagement and support for projects benefitting African nations, signifying a long-term commitment to stability and prosperity on the continent. However, Biden's visit also comes with scrutiny regarding human rights issues in Angola, including recent reports from organizations like Amnesty International. Human rights advocates have urged the U.S. to address the Angolan government's repressive actions against dissent. They have called for the release of political prisoners unjustly held, highlighting the complexities of U.S.-Angola relations that intertwine economic interests with ethical considerations. Biden's efforts to clarify the U.S. investment strategy as a preferable alternative to China's involvement are critical not only in the context of U.S.-China rivalry but also in fostering a more equitable approach to international investment in Africa.