Beijing- In a significant move, the leaders of China and Zambia have announced the enhancement of their relationship to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership on September 15, reflecting China’s commitment to strengthening its connections with countries of the Global South.
Earlier on the same day, Chinese President Xi Jinping held discussions with the newly appointed Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. In the preceding week, President Xi also engaged with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. This tripartite interaction involving leaders from Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America underscores China’s expanding presence in these regions.
China’s involvement in these areas has seen substantial investments from Chinese state banks in various infrastructure projects, while Chinese enterprises have played pivotal roles in constructing factories, mines, hotels, and even casinos.
China’s outreach to the Global South holds increasing geopolitical significance as it seeks allies in response to mounting pressure from the United States and its allies on multiple fronts. Diplomatic support from numerous Global South nations, particularly in contentious debates and votes at the United Nations, has contributed to China’s diplomatic prowess.
China’s territorial disputes with Southeast Asian nations in the South China Sea have also seen Cambodia’s support. This ongoing engagement further solidifies China’s position.
State broadcaster CCTV reported that President Xi and Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema unveiled their upgraded partnership during a meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. This development comes shortly after China elevated its diplomatic relations with Venezuela to an “all-weather” partnership status, a distinction granted to only a select few nations.
While China’s financial support and development loans have facilitated progress in several nations, it has also raised concerns about debt sustainability. Some countries, including Zambia, have faced debt crises that impede their economic advancement.
Cambodia, which has more than 40% of its $10 billion foreign debt attributed to Chinese institutions, maintains a critical relationship with China. The recent expansion of a Cambodian naval facility with Chinese assistance has raised eyebrows internationally. While the United States has expressed reservations, Cambodia’s leadership has refuted claims that China has been granted rights to establish its military base at Ream Naval Base.
Prime Minister Hun Manet chose China as his inaugural official foreign visit after succeeding his father, Hun Sen, who held power in Cambodia for four decades.
Following his meetings in Beijing, Prime Minister Hun Manet is scheduled to join other Southeast Asian leaders this weekend at the 20th ASEAN-China Expo in southern China. This event focuses on fostering collaboration in trade, investment, and tourism.
Source AP
