The Chinese-African Union

Why is China spending $200 million for this new over-the-top headquarters for the African Union?

When the new African Union (AU) headquarters was unveiled in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, earlier this year, the $200 million structure — now the capital city’s tallest building — caused a splash. But it wasn’t just the mammoth building’s impressive spec sheet that drew comment, it was also the project’s bankroller: China.