“The term ‘Peace and Security,’ which China is showcasing through its involvement in South Sudan, will take the center stage at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit in Beijing.”
Following in the line of four high-level meetings, “Peace and Security” will be one of the topics included in the agenda of the forthcoming 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) from September 4 to 6, Beijing. It is, therefore, a major highlight in China-Africa relations. For Beijing, therefore, South Sudan translates into more than just another African country; it is a vital opportunity for China to showcase its commitment to world peace and security. Since its independence in 2011, the world’s youngest nation has gone through much conflict. With over a hundred tribes arguing over their existence and an inter-tribal battleground, it is one of the most dismal constants in the country so far.
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China’s Peace Enforcement in South Sudan
In the South Sudan country, China has been distinguished as the first not only by being the most significant contributor to UN peacekeeping forces but also by advocating for a comprehensive peace under its Global Security Initiative. In 2015, Chinese heightening efforts entailed the deployment of the country’s first full infantry battalion to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). This battalion of 700 men is stationed in Juba and handles arms patrols, separation of violence, and searches for security. Equipped with light weapons and mobile armored personnel carriers, these troops form the backbone of peacekeeping efforts in one of the most volatile regions in the world.
Increasing Contributions to Peacekeeping.
China’s involvement in South Sudan extends beyond infantry battalions. Deployments are made for more than 1000 peacekeepers, engineering, and medical personnel, making it the largest Chinese peacekeeping contingent in any mission area in the world. Engineering units stationed in Wau have been very instrumental in preserving roads, bridges, and airports. Chinese medical units fulfill the all-important healthcare needs of both UN personnel and neighboring communities in areas often devoid of healthcare services.
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The Principles That Guide China’s Foreign Policy
The foundation of China’s involvement in peacekeeping efforts in South Sudan can be linked up with the five principles of peaceful coexistence that have been the guiding tenets for foreign policy activity since time immemorial. Of these, the three principles that are more directly relevant to South Sudan-such as sovereignty and the fragility of stability-are mutual respect for sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, and peaceful coexistence. China is not only providing peacekeeping but has also done very much in terms of direct assistance to the unified forces of South Sudan has supported mediation, and continues to call for the lifting of international sanctions and the arms embargo.
Conclusion: With the FOCAC summit approaching, China’s involvement in South Sudan will be keenly watched for its immediate effects on the stability of the country and what it says about Beijing’s evolving international role. The success of these initiatives will shape the future of China’s engagement with Africa and the wider world.