A Diaspora's Engagement in Changing International Relations: The Case of the Overseas Chinese in Africa

Over the centuries, the Chinese diaspora has been significantly engaged and involved in economic cooperation in African countries. This article analyzes the historical development and roles in international cooperation of the Chinese diaspora in Africa. By classification of the Chinese diaspora, the authors examine how the Chinese have been involved and engaged in economic cooperation in transnational borders. Their strong ties and well developed networks impacted the host countries. In the end, the engagement of Chinese trade and labor diaspora in economic cooperation has made an outstanding transformation in most of the African countries and led to changes in international relationships between its home and host countries.