Accra: Mr Tong Defa, the Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, stated that Beijing does not condone the illegal activities of its citizens globally, including in Ghana. He emphasized China's support for Ghana's efforts to combat illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, and to appropriately punish offenders.
According to Ghana News Agency, Ambassador Tong, during a media briefing in Accra, addressed the deportation of Chinese nationals involved in illegal mining. He highlighted China's zero-tolerance policy and mentioned that stringent measures have been established to deter Chinese citizens from engaging in such activities. The Ambassador noted that Chinese nationals found guilty of illegal mining would be denied passports and barred from returning to Ghana, facing consequences under Chinese law.
Ambassador Tong also remarked on the unfairness of attributing illegal mining solely to Chinese nationals, noting that galamsey predates their involvement and often includes the complicity of local Ghanaian hosts. He urged the Ghanaian media to report on the issue factually and objectively to aid in developing long-term solutions.
He added that Chinese law enforcement collaborates with Ghanaian authorities to repatriate illegal miners, ensuring they do not re-enter the country. Deportation has proven to be a more effective strategy, as offenders may escape while on bail during prosecution.
Ambassador Tong called for a holistic approach to regulating small-scale mining, emphasizing the need for policies that balance economic livelihoods with environmental protection. He believes that while small-scale mining cannot be entirely eliminated, it can be better regulated through collaboration among government, local authorities, mining communities, and international partners.
He highlighted the positive contributions of legally operating Chinese businesses, such as Chifeng Gold, which employs mostly Ghanaians and supports local agriculture. Similarly, KEDA Ceramics, a Chinese-owned factory, employs thousands of Ghanaians and benefits many more through its supply chain.
Ambassador Tong encouraged the media to also focus on positive success stories to accurately reflect the full scope of Ghana-China relations, underscoring the embassy's readiness to work together on mutually beneficial solutions. He emphasized the media's potential to help convey the complete narrative of their bilateral relationship.
