Alicia Chen

Alicia Chen, a political science PhD candidate at Stanford and author of 'Foreign Aid with Chinese Characteristics,' dives into the intricacies of China's unique foreign aid strategy. She explains how China distinguishes aid from development finance and why its aid budget remains modest. Alicia highlights China's tactical approach, especially its focus on regional organizations like the AU and ASEAN, and discusses how this strategy serves as a diplomatic tool rather than mere charity. She also debunks myths about aid motivations, revealing a nuanced picture of international influence.