EVEN before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague announced in late June that the arbitral tribunal in the case of the Philippines against China will issue its award, or decision, on July 12, the Chinese government had been lobbying furiously around the world for support for its position of not accepting or recognizing any ruling made by the international tribunal.

Last Saturday, July 9, Hong Lei, a spokesman for the Chinese foreign ministry, said that at least 60 countries, more than 30 of them from Africa, have voiced support for China’s stance. This is a reflection of China’s increasing influence, especially in Africa, where 51 countries are benefiting from Chinese largesse.

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