Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Mao Ning emphasized during Tuesday's press conference that China supports Nigeria's sovereignty and development, stressing that foreign interference in the country's internal affairs is unacceptable. This statement came in response to the allegations of US President Donald Trump, who accused the Nigerian government of lack of action to protect Christians and threatened the suspension of aid and possible military actionand.
Beijing's position sparked a quick reaction from US Congressman Riley M. Moore. The Republican stressed that the United States will not allow China to influence its foreign policy and will defend Christians in Nigeria.
Nigeria, one of China's key African partners, plays a strategic role in China's Belt and Road Initiative. Chinese investments in infrastructure, energy and the mining industry in this country have reached significant levels. According to Nigeria's Development Minister, Dele Alake, since September 2023, China has invested over $1.3 billion in Nigeria's lithium processing industry.
On Friday, Donald Trump accused the Nigerian government of failing to protect Christians in the face of attacks and threatened sanctions and possible military intervention. In response, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu strongly rejected the allegations, emphasizing his country's commitment to religious freedom. In turn, on Tuesday, the Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, assured that the Nigerian constitution prevents any state involvement in religious persecution.
Read also: Nigeria. The country's energy system collapsed
The growing diplomatic conflict between Washington and Abuja, in which China has also become involved, indicates growing tensions in the international arena, especially in the context of African economic and political interests.
