Chinese Envoy Rubbishes ZNBC, Zesco Takeover Claims

Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Li Jie has denied that Chinese companies operating in Zambia have taken over three State owned companies namely ZNBC, Zesco and the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport.

Addressing local and international media houses at the Chinese embassy in Lusaka today, Jie affirmed that Chinese companies enjoy warm relations with the three companies through various agreements where the Chinese companies are offering support in areas such as infrastructure and technology.

Speculations have heightened that due to the debt that Zambia has contracted from China through state owned institutions like the above, the Chinese government has taken over as Zambia has failed to settle the debt.

And speaking when he addressed Parliament today, President Lungu, Zambia’s friendship with China is mutual and no amount of malicious propaganda will deter Zambia from enjoying the opportunities that lie in its relationship with China.

“I urge everyone to remain focused and not be moved by the ongoing mischaracterized information suggesting that our friendship with China suggest colonialism,” he said.