In the two years and four months since I arrived in Harare, I have had the privilege of meeting many journalists and media professionals, conducting interviews, delivering speeches, and engaging with people across social media. What continues to inspire me is that the majority of Zimbabwean people, media outlets, and media practitioners care deeply about facts and truth—and stand firm against the toxic narratives that seek to cloud judgment and tear communities apart.
In May this year, at the launch of Zimbabwe’s National Media Policy at State House in Harare, His Excellency President ED Mnangagwa stated that the media must evolve with the times, serving as the symbolic ‘eye’ and ‘mirror’ of society—providing an honest, grounded reflection of our realities. Indeed, Zimbabwe is committed to ensuring its citizens have access to factual, verified, and reliable information—a pillar that upholds the strength of your nation’s democracy.
Just last week, during the Zanu-PF National Conference in Mutare, His Excellency reiterated that Zimbabwe will combat misinformation and disinformation, emphasizing that “Zimbabwe is not governed on social media.” These words resonate deeply. As we navigate this digital era, it is more imperative than ever to ensure that a country is run by the rule of law. Social media is a space for sharing information and ideas—not for passing verdicts, inciting hatred, racism, or xenophobia. As seasoned media practitioners, I trust you understand this better than I do: when narratives are weaponized, truth becomes the first casualty.
I stand before you not only as China’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe but also as a friend to journalists and media professionals. It is in this spirit of friendship that I wish to speak plainly about a narrative that concerns us all—the story of China–Zimbabwe relations, and how it is sometimes distorted in the court of public opinion.
A Zimbabwean friend once told me: “Countries that face no criticism are those doing nothing.” I don’t disagree with that. However, as we welcome constructive criticism, we do hope to be spared the harm of malicious lies that undermine the friendship and erode the bonds of trust between our peoples.
To understand the nature of China–Zimbabwe relations, let me first try to paint a clear picture of China. As China’s Ambassador, I’ve always found it a challenging task to portray my country—its past, its present, its soul. How could it not be? With 5,000 years of unbroken civilization, 1.4 billion people from 56 vibrant ethnic groups, and the world’s second-largest economy, China’s complexity defies simplistic explanation.
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Geopolitically, China navigates one of the world’s most complex strategic landscapes. As a major country spanning over 9.6 million square kilometers, we share land borders with 14 neighboring nations and maritime boundaries with six more—while being surrounded by more than 200 foreign military bases. This stark reality demands not only robust development strategies but also a principled, consistent foreign policy.
Economically, China’s journey has been marked by historic achievements—most notably, lifting over 800 million people out of poverty within just a few decades, eradicating absolute poverty on an unprecedented scale. Yet we continue to face significant challenges, including the urban–rural divide and uneven regional development. While you may be impressed by China’s modern infrastructure and cutting-edge technologies, please bear in mind that, in line with the UN standards and international norms, China is still a developing country—and development remains our unwavering priority.
Guided by a people-centered development philosophy, China has blazed a distinctive path to modernization—one that safeguards our sovereignty, honors our heritage, and stays true to our realities. While pursuing innovation-driven economic growth, we are steadfastly advancing common prosperity, environmental protection, and good governance with zero tolerance for corruption.
Earlier today, the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China was just concluded in Beijing. The CPC’s recommendations were adopted for formulating China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, which will outline China’s development blueprint for the next five years and set clear priorities. Like all our strategies, this plan is crafted not only to advance our own progress but also to create more cooperation opportunities for partners like Zimbabwe—whether through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) or the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
Diplomatically, China adheres to an independent foreign policy of peace, centered on the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind. We uphold a rules-based international order anchored in the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and we embrace inclusive and mutually beneficial economic globalization as well as equal and orderly multipolarization—principles that echo the shared aspirations of developing countries everywhere, including our Zimbabwean brothers and sisters.
In response to global challenges, H. E. Chinese President Xi Jinping has put forward four major global initiatives: the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative, and the Global Governance Initiative. These initiatives offer practical, actionable Chinese solutions to shared global challenges and closely align with Africa’s own development priorities.
I have spoken about China and its strategies and policies tonight because they are deeply relevant here. Based on the principles and policies we advocate, we have built a solid, time-tested partnership with Zimbabwe over the years. Founded on shared values, common interests, and a commitment to win-win outcomes, our partnership now spans nearly every sector and has contributed tremendously to Zimbabwe’s economic and social progress and the well-being of its people.
Yet, while this profound friendship is widely recognized and cherished, we have also witnessed waves of misconceptions—and at times, systematic smears—against our precious partnership. Across social media and some segments of the press, a troubling narrative persists: one shaped not by facts, but by bias; not by fairness, but by preconceived prejudices. These voices may not represent the majority, but they are loud enough to mislead the public. Let me address three of the most common fallacies head-on.
First, the baseless label of so-called “neo-colonialism.” Some claim China is looting Zimbabwe’s resources, that Chinese investors are neo-colonialists, and that our investments only benefit elites in this country. These allegations ignore a basic fact: Chinese investments are here because Zimbabwe is open for business, and Chinese companies operate in accordance with Zimbabwean laws—creating jobs and paying taxes. Colonialists never arrive by invitation, nor do they abide by local laws—they impose their own rules to serve their own interests. This is a stark contrast to China’s cooperative appoach.
Second, the misleading claim of a “debt trap.” This idea inverts reality. A “trap” implies deception and coercion, yet every loan China has provided was initiated by the Zimbabwean government, negotiated through transparent processes, and directed toward productive projects that benefit this country’s long-term development—such as the Hwange 7&8 power units and the upgrade of Robert Mugabe International Airport. Consider this crucial fact: Zimbabwe’s debt to China accounts for just 16% of its total external debt. If China’s loans were a “trap”, what should we make of the 84% debt owe to other creditors? This narrative isn’t about finance—it is meant to discredit Zimbabwe’s sovereign right to choose its partners.
Third, allegations of labor abuse and environmental damage. Yes, there have been environmental and labor issues related to Chinese mining companies. However, according to the data from the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, labor disputes involving Chinese firms accounted for 7.5% of total cases last year, and the vast majority were resolved through dialogue. Wages at Chinese-invested factories are significantly higher than the industry average. The question is, do those individual cases reflect the broader picture of Chinese investment in the mining sector, even the whole Chinese business operations? Should they overshadow and undermine the efforts of the majority of Chinese companies creating hundreds of thousands of jobs and building hundreds of corporate social responsibility projects in Zimbabwe?
As some Chinese companies ask: When similar issues arise with other local or foreign enterprises, do they receive the same spotlight and the same level of scrutiny? Our position is clear: compliance with Zimbabwean laws is non-negotiable. Our Embassy recently issued a notice to all Chinese nationals operating or investing here. We called on them to conduct thorough due diligence and risk assessments before making investments, look beyond financial metrics to gain a good understanding of the overall investment climate, business culture, community dynamics, and socio-cultural norms including traditions and customs, and to avoid involvement in any ventures that might lead to controversies or disputes. We urge them to strictly uphold fair labor practices, demonstrate high standards of environmental stewardship, engage with local communities, and reject corruption in any form.
At the same time, we are fully aware that we are a diplomatic mission, not a governing body. It is the local law enforcement’s job to determine right from wrong, and to fairly address disputes within the legal framework, not by the social media, not by any foreign embassies. I believe it is also their work to foster a fair, enabling and attractive business environment in Zimbabwe—for all investors and business operators, local or foreign.
In confronting the fallacies and the scapegoating, we realize that Zimbabwe, too, is often a victim—misunderstood, stereotyped, and unfairly judged in other countries. When a people, a nationality, is demonized or blamed for local challenges, it is not just an individual injustice—it inflicts a collective wound. Let’s be clear: scapegoating and demonizing others may be politically convenient, but it will never build a single factory, drill a single borehole, or create a single job.
Our partnership was forged in the crucible of Zimbabwe's liberation struggle, when China stood firmly with Zimbabwe as a comrade-in-arms. It is built on the shared conviction that all nations must chart their own destinies.
Today, this partnership manifests itself in tangible achievements: from the modernization of the Hwange and Kariba power stations to the upgrade of the Victoria Falls and Harare International Airports; from the establishment of gigantic steel and lithium plants by China’s private sector, to the building of hospitals, schools, and boreholes; from sponsoring training programs for government officials and professionals to facilitate knowledge sharing and technology transfer, to supporting robust people-to-people exchanges that enhance our mutual understanding. Ours is a partnership defined by deeds, not just words.
Neither China nor Zimbabwe is perfect—but we are sincere partners. We do not impose—we propose. We do not withdraw when criticized; instead, we engage constructively. When talking about China-Zimbabwe relations, we don’t have to only sing praises or only highlight flaws. As you recognize our achievements and progress, we welcome constructive criticism and honest feedback.
To the journalists: you are not merely observers of history—you are its co-authors. In an era rife with misinformation, your work is more arduous and more critical than ever. Let us practice journalism that informs rather than inflames. Do not let your platforms be exploited to divide, distort, or destabilize. When you hear a sensational claim, verify facts before publishing. Do not blame the sun for the shadow it casts. Choose light over shadow, truth over rumor, and partnership over prejudice—because it matters deeply.
China and Zimbabwe will remain unwavering partners—because we share a common vision: a multipolar world where every nation has a voice, and every people can thrive.
The Chinese Embassy will always stand as your friend. If you wish to learn more about China, we will help you make connections. If you aim to cover China-Zimbabwe cooperation projects, we will try to assist you in obtaining firsthand information. This is not just about media—it is about deepening the bonds between our peoples, consolidating the foundation of our fraternity, one that serves Zimbabwe’s interests and its future.
Your work illuminates not only the headlines, but the very soul of Zimbabwe. May your pens always be guided by courage and conscience.
- Ambassador Zhou Ding was speaking at the 2025 NJAMA awards