Despite statements of concern about China, the U.S. is reducing its small military presence in Africa.
“We are baffled by the U.S. inaction,” the DP World official said. “All supplies for their base come through the port, and if it falls in Chinese hands, there could be significant problems.”
Meanwhile, maritime officials see more ships moving through the site.
“It’s like a baby sister to mainland China ports that expand to bring in more ships,” said Panagiotis Hatzikostas, a chief mechanic on a container vessel that unloaded cargo destined for neighboring Ethiopia in mid-February. “But if you want to send cargo to East Africa, you call at Djibouti. It became a gateway from the start, with no real competition. That gives it a lot of potential.”...