A Comparative Analysis of China's and the US's Smart Power in Africa

Africa has received a lot of attention from China and America in recent years. By examining the soft and hard power used by these two countries in Africa, including activities in the fields of culture, politics, diplomacy, economics, and trade it is concluded that each of the powers is trying to increase their sphere of influence on this continent. In recent decades, using smart power has become one of the most important aspects of the foreign policy strategy of the great powers. In order to achieve their goals, Chinese and American's governments have taken effective steps to increase their influence and position in Africa. The main question of this study is: What is the place of using hard and soft power components and mechanisms in China and America's foreign policy towards Africa? In response to this hypothesis, a comparative-historical method is used to examine how the degree of overlap and balanced use of smart power tools and resources varies between China and America. The use of soft and hard power components by the two countries shows that China's elites in comparison with America, have been able to increase their position in Africa by creating harmony and balance use of smart power resources and tools without restrictions.