Energy deals behind Chinese visit

The Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing is beginning a week-long visit to Africa during which energy deals will be high on the agenda.

China is increasingly looking to Africa for oil and gas as its economy booms.

But the Chinese are looking too at other African resources – particularly its timber reserves.

In the meantime, there is Western concern that some of Beijing’s partnerships are providing a shield for undemocratic and corrupt practices.