By our Correspondent
The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has strongly opposed a bill introduced by certain U.S. congressmen, accusing China of illegal mining and funding militia groups in Nigeria.
In a statement, the Embassy described the allegations as groundless, expressing firm dissatisfaction with claims amplified by some media outlets, suggesting Chinese mining companies were funding terrorism.
The Embassy said the accusations were entirely baseless, urging relevant media organisations to immediately stop spreading false and misleading information that could damage China–Nigeria relations.
According to the Embassy, the Chinese government required its companies and citizens overseas to strictly comply with host countries’ laws and maintain zero tolerance for illegal or criminal activities.
It stressed that most Chinese mining firms in Nigeria had maintained exemplary compliance with Nigerian regulations, contributed to local communities, protected the environment and supported economic development and job creation.
The Embassy reaffirmed China’s respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and expressed support for Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen governance of its mining sector in accordance with the law.
It added that the Embassy maintained close communication and cooperation with relevant Nigerian authorities, to promote lawful and transparent mining operations.
The statement noted that Chinese mining enterprises had themselves been victims of terrorist activities and remained willing to support Nigeria’s efforts to safeguard national security.
The Embassy said China stood ready to deepen cooperation with Nigeria, promote sustainable mining relations, protect enterprises’ legitimate rights and deliver tangible benefits to both peoples.
It urged some section of the media to stop spreading rumours and slander, capable of undermining the longstanding friendly cooperation between China and Nigeria. (GSF)
