China in Gabon: China has set up projects worth billions of rupees in Africa. Somewhere, China intended to enslave Gabon through its project. Beijing has strengthened its hold in many African countries by setting up projects and enslaving them by giving them loans. The intention was to do something similar in Gabon, but it has fallen into its trap here. China is also trapped in such a situation that it may suffer a loss of billions of rupees.
There has been a coup in Gabon recently. Because of this, a threat has loomed over the projects of China. Gabon, located in West Africa, is rich in oil and mineral resources. After announcing the election results, the army placed President Ali Bongo under house arrest. Ali Bongo was about to become President for the third time. General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema has been made the new army president. He has been the former chief of the Presidential Guard.
What Did China Say On The Coup?
According to the South China Morning Post, China has advised all parties to hold talks. On behalf of the Foreign Ministry of China, it was said that the situation in Gabon is being monitored. The ministry said that China wants all parties to resolve their differences through dialogue, and the security of President Ali Bongo should also be ensured. Chinese citizens present in Gabon were told not to leave their homes. In case of emergency, the Chinese Embassy should be contacted.
Why Did China Suffer Loss Due To The Coup?
Dr. John Calabrese, Senior Fellow of the Middle East Institute, says China is one of Gabon’s major trading partners. China imports large quantities of manganese from Gabon. China has a good relationship with President Ali Bongo. Now, it has to be seen how China can build a relationship with the army. He said that due to Gabon’s instability, China may suffer more losses. It will not be easy for China to build a relationship with the army.
According to a Reuters report, Chinese companies have invested money in hydro projects in Gabon. Apart from this, many projects are also happening in this sector due to being rich in minerals. After coming to power, the army has now got control over them. China has invested billions of rupees here, which is under threat. During the tenure of President Bongo, China was quickly taking out minerals from here, which will be difficult now.
According to Chinese customs data, in 2022, the two-way trade between the two countries has reached US $4.55 billion. Thus, China is Gabon’s largest trading partner. Trade between the two is increasing at 50 per cent every year. According to the news of Diplomat, China imports crude oil, manganese and wood from Gabon. After the coup, whether the army allows him to achieve these things or not has to be seen.
