04DEC2024 – Professor Catia Miriam from ISCTE-IUL, Portugal, delivered an enlightening conference at the Faculty of Social Sciences (FSS) and the Department of Government and Public Administration (DGPA). The conference focused on the intricate relations between China and African Portuguese-speaking countries, drawing a keen audience of students and academic staff.
One of the key points Professor Miriam highlighted was the continuity of informal diplomatic relations between China and Portugal, which persisted until 1979. Despite the formal diplomatic hiatus, China maintained a strategic interest in Portuguese-speaking countries from 1949 to 1975. This period was marked by China’s efforts to foster connections and influence within these nations, reflecting its broader geopolitical strategies.
Professor Miriam emphasized that China never closed its doors to foreign affairs and international cooperation. This openness was a cornerstone of China’s foreign policy, allowing it to build and sustain relationships even during politically turbulent times. The conference underscored how China’s diplomatic strategies were not just reactive but proactive, aiming to establish a global presence.
A significant portion of the conference was dedicated to discussing China’s push for a “global China” in Africa, which later extended to the entire Global South. This strategic expansion was part of China’s broader vision to enhance its influence and foster solidarity among developing nations. Professor Miriam illustrated this point by referencing various historical and cultural sources, including the Peking Review, the Soldiers of Pen, the All-African People’s Conference, Chinese press opinions (1961), and the Afro-Asian Literature Series.
These sources provided a rich context for understanding China’s diplomatic and cultural outreach. The Peking Review, for instance, was instrumental in disseminating China’s perspectives and policies to a global audience. The Soldiers of Pen highlighted the role of intellectuals and writers in shaping and promoting China’s foreign policy narratives. The All-African People’s Conference and Chinese press opinions from 1961 showcased China’s active engagement with African nations, while the Afro-Asian Literature Series reflected the cultural dimensions of China’s international relations.
Professor Miriam’s conference was not only informative but also thought-provoking, encouraging attendees to consider the historical and contemporary implications of China’s foreign policy. Her insights into the continuous and strategic nature of China’s relations with Portuguese-speaking countries provided a nuanced understanding of global geopolitics.
Overall, the conference was a significant academic event that enriched the knowledge of FSS and DGPA students and staff. It highlighted the importance of historical context in understanding current international relations and underscored the value of interdisciplinary approaches in studying global politics. Professor Miriam’s expertise and engaging presentation style left a lasting impact on the audience, inspiring further exploration and discussion on the topic.
