INTERCULTURAL ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY MODEL FOR CENTRAL AFRICA: THE IMPORTANCE OF INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION
INTERCULTURAL ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY MODEL FOR CENTRAL AFRICA: THE IMPORTANCE OF INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION

Summary/Abstract: The post-colonial relations of European countries and their former African colonies are complex and sensitive, in light of past memories, economic and political interests. Africans and Europeans maintain an ongoing dialogue at all levels on political, economic, commercial, humanitarian issues and more. Intercultural communication is of great importance, and fruitful dialogue requires an ability to bridge gaps and reach a high level of mutual understanding. Theoretical and practical models have tried to offer solutions to improve dialogue. For example, Hofstede's model describes six dimensions through which cultures of different societies and nationalities can be compared. Other theories help determine criteria for optimising comparability, and for better intercultural communication. This paper aims to present the component of intercultural communication from the Intercultural Economic Diplomacy Model for Central Africa. The model was developed as part of a PhD research “Intercultural Economics Diplomacy and Cross-Cultural Encounters in Central Africa after the Discovery of Natural Resources - The Case of Equatorial Guinea”. The model aims to offer a practical tool for those who wish their intercultural cooperation to be more productive. The findings of the research rely on interviews and document analysis conducted with government members and senior officials in Equatorial Guinea and UN agencies. The paper argues that intercultural communication is of great importance in dialogue with Central Africa, and will present the main recommendations drawn from the findings.

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