Over the past two decades, Chile has been a place where businesses can operate in a regulatory environment shaped by steady and fair rules, while Argentina’s extensive regulations on prices, taxes and capital controls have made business difficult. However, when it comes to the lithium industry, that narrative has just been flipped.
Three visits to Nairobi this week by major dignitaries is the latest indication of a recognition by global actors of Africa’s increasing importance in international affairs—and Kenya’s aspiration to be a major voice for Africa in global affairs. But Nairobi must now demonstrate its readiness to assume such a responsibility.
Despite minimal payoff from U.S. President Joe Biden’s visit to the Middle East last summer, Washington has nonetheless scored some diplomatic wins over the past year. But the gains Washington has made have now run into significant yet predictable headwinds, highlighting the difficulties facing Biden’s regional agenda.
