The spill of a copper mine in Zambia

In recent years, Zambia It has emerged as one of the greatest copper producers. As expected, China, who is one of LGreater importers of this elementhas invested in its mining, but a recent accident puts at risk the channel of the relationship between the two countries.

Short. As reported AP newsa residue dam of the Chinese copper mine, Sino-Metals Leach Zambia, collapsed in northern Zambia, causing a massive spill of more than 50 million liters of acid on the Kafue River.

Social and environmental tensions. This environmental disaster, added to damage to aquatic ecosystems and the possible expansion of pollution to the Zambeze River, has generated a growing concern for environmental impact, According to ZNBC.

In addition, this situation has exacerbated the social tensions that already existed in Zambia regarding Chinese mining operations, particularly about the country’s working conditions and debt with Beijing, How has AP News indicated. China’s growing dominant role resistance in Zambia’s mining sector could trigger protests and disturbances similar to those occurred in 2018, when Kitwe citizens They rose against the unfair working conditions imposed by Chinese companies.

Given the seriousness of the matter. According to has detailed An analysis by James Palmer for Foreign Policy, the Zambia government has begun to take action. The Nation has re -established an environmental bill, which had previously stagnated due to the pressure of mining interests. However, the government has been clear that the relationship with China remains crucial for the country’s economic future, and that the need for financing for large -scale projects remains a priority, such as the expansion of copper production.

And what does China say? From the Asian country they have transferred their deep dismay of the disaster and urged the company to assume all responsibility, According to South China Morning Post. The response of the Asian giant, How does Palmer analyst indicatefocuses on minimizing repercussions by the State itself to maintain its influence on the Zambian government, which needs investments to achieve Its ambitious objective to triple copper production.

An uncertain future. How SCMP saidalthough Chinese investments have been fundamental for the growth of the Zambian mining sector, the acid spill has revealed social and environmental risks inherent to this type of investments. Although Zambia continues to see China as a key partner for LA strong clientelism relationshipthe growing pressure of the opposition and social movements could force the government to reconsider some aspects of this relationship.

United States following closely. In the end copper mining is a winning letter in strategic terms. The investment of 4,000 million dollars in the project of the Lobito corridor Last year demonstrates Washington’s intention to challenge China’s growing influence on the region. The growing internal pressure and international competition make the future of mining in Zambia even more uncertain.

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