In response to three recently released reports by the U.S.-based think tank Atlantic Council, China has strongly refuted allegations that its mining, timber demand, and fishing activities in West Africa have caused environmental degradation. The think tank claimed that these issues stemmed from high domestic demand in China, combined with governance weaknesses and corruption in several West African nations. It further called for tighter regulations on cooperation between China and countries in the region.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun dismissed the accusations, emphasizing that China’s engagement with African countries follows the principles of sincerity, real results, amity, and good faith. Guo stated that cooperation between China and African nations is based on mutual benefit and shared interests, helping boost economic growth and sustainable development.
According to Guo, Chinese projects and investments in Africa have been welcomed by local governments and communities, serving as proof of the positive impact of China’s partnership. He noted that the Chinese government strictly instructs all Chinese companies operating abroad to comply with local laws, regulations, and environmental policies.
Guo also reiterated China’s commitment to promoting green development, adding that environmental protection remains a high priority in all China-Africa cooperation initiatives.
Rejecting the Atlantic Council’s reports, Guo criticized them for being biased and misleading, saying they misapplied concepts and cited unverified information to deliberately attack China’s legitimate cooperation with West African countries. He described the reports as “clearly intended and simply disgraceful.”
Guo concluded by calling on certain U.S. institutions to stop spreading misinformation and instead focus on contributing positively to Africa’s development, urging them to consider what they can do to truly benefit the African people.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on official statements from the Chinese Foreign Ministry and reports from international media sources.
