Zhang Bin, who took office on February 23, commented in this way on Angola's rapprochement with the United States, without directly answering whether cooperation with the Americans had disturbed the relationship with the Chinese.
The USA is the main financier of the so-called Lobito Corridor, a railway link that runs through Angola from the Atlantic coast to the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, of strategic importance for transporting ores from the Copperbelt region (copper belt).
At the press conference, the Chinese diplomat declared himself satisfied that the great powers are increasing investments and promoting the socio-economic development of Africa, hoping that they will fulfill their promises.
"The choice of partners is Angola's right and no one can interfere. We are happy for other countries to increase investments", highlighted Zhang Bin, adding that the principle of Chinese diplomacy is non-interference and non-interference in internal affairs.
"What we oppose is that they interfere in Africa's cooperation with other countries and defame Chinese cooperation, (...) we hope that the remaining countries will further promote their cooperation with Africa, despite the competition that, we hope, will be from friendship", he stressed.
Regarding Chinese cooperation with Angola, he highlighted that "it has brought true benefits to the people of both countries" and has evolved into a more pragmatic aspect.
Asked about violations of the rights of Angolan workers in Chinese companies that have been reported in the Angolan press, the diplomat highlighted that the Chinese Government requires its citizens and companies to respect local regulations and laws and supports them being sanctioned if they commit crimes, but does not interfere with the process.
Regarding the alleged lack of quality of the infrastructure built in Angola, he says that it has been 20 years and that they need maintenance, highlighting the need to train more Angolan technicians.
The diplomat also stated that China is a reliable partner and that "external forces" that "use unique cases to defame the friendly relationship between China and Africa" should be avoided.
