One key message President Xi Jinping has taken on his visit is that China and Africa are equals.He also says Beijing’s willingness to provide assistance with no political strings attached will continue.University of Hong Kong professor Adams Bodomo said that so far, Xi is getting the linguistic aspect of the relationship right.“Words like brotherhood, independence, we will respect your integrity and sovereignty, these are very important for Africa.In contrast with some other parts of the world where leaders come over and say Africa must do this, using the word ‘must do this’, kind of imposing," said Bodomo."He’s talking the language that Africans like because they feel people who respect them people, who consider them as equal partners, that is something that we Africans will look up to.”China’s trade with Africa is massive and totaled about $200 billion last year alone. It also tilts heavily, though, in China’s favor.Earlier this month, the governor of Nigeria’s central bank warned African countries to shake off their romantic view of China,saying it is a competitor just as much as it is a partner.
