【环时深度】南方国家对华认知何以不断“扩容”

Core Insights - The article discusses the increasing recognition and understanding of China among various countries, particularly in the Global South, emphasizing the shift from cultural perceptions to a focus on China's economic growth drivers and institutional frameworks [1][5]. Group 1: Chinese Language Education - Chinese language education is rapidly expanding in Egypt, with 28 universities and over 20 high schools offering Chinese courses, and the number of students at the Confucius Institute at Cairo University rising from under 30 to nearly 4,000 [2]. - The UAE has initiated a "Hundred Schools Project" for Chinese language teaching, with 171 schools currently offering Chinese courses and 71,000 students learning the language [2]. Group 2: Research Institutions and Scholars - The number of research institutions and scholars focusing on China in the Middle East and Africa is increasing, with notable institutions in Egypt, such as the Pyramid Political and Strategic Studies Center and the Cabinet Information and Decision Support Center, producing experts on China [2][3]. - In Nigeria, the establishment of research institutions related to China has surged since 2018, with companies like Dangote Group creating research centers focused on China-Nigeria cooperation [3]. Group 3: Shifts in Research Focus - The focus of research on China has shifted from ancient civilization to development paths, cooperation models, and institutional advantages, reflecting a broader understanding of China's role in global affairs [5][8]. - In Indonesia, the research on China has evolved through three stages, from focusing on China's economic growth to exploring the Belt and Road Initiative and now deepening understanding of China's technological innovations [7]. Group 4: Economic and Political Influence - The growing interest in China among Global South countries is driven by China's increasing economic and political influence, with countries seeking to learn from China's experiences in poverty alleviation, economic growth, and infrastructure development [8][9]. - The trade volume between China and Arab countries is projected to reach $407.4 billion by 2024, prompting a need for Arab businesses to understand Chinese market rules and operational models [9]. Group 5: Geopolitical Context - Middle Eastern countries are increasingly valuing strategic cooperation with China, recognizing its constructive role in global issues such as climate change and energy crises [10]. - The deepening understanding of China has led to tangible development benefits for countries like Egypt, which has become the first African nation capable of satellite assembly and testing [10].