CHINA has backed Zambia’s position that the Asian nation has no plans of taking over Zesco or any other public institution and says it hopes the US will refrain from having a “loose tongue”.
Last week, US National Security Advisor John Bolton alleged that China was poised to take over Zesco to collect a US$6-10 billion debt that Zambia owes China.
But China, through a statement issued by its embassy in Lusaka yesterday, says when conducting cooperation with Africa, it always follows the principles of sincerity, real results, friendship and good faith while upholding justice for shared interests.
“China offers assistance to support local economic and social development within its capacity with no political strings attached, fully respects the will of Africa to effectively meet the needs of Africa,” the statement reads.