The Gambia government has complained to China over the mistreatment and discriminatory actions against Gambians and other Africans in Guangzhou, China. 

Foreign Affairs Minister Dr Mamadou Tangara summoned China’s ambassador to The Gambia Ma Jianchun to register his government concerns. 

Africans in Guangzhou have recently faced discriminatory actions including being ejected from their apartments by their landlords, tested for coronavirus several times without being given results and shunned in public, refused entry to restaurants and shops. 

In a statement issued on Friday following the meeting with the Chinese ambassador, the Foreign ministry said: 

“The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Dr. Mamadou Tangara communicated The Gambia’s position and feelings during a meeting with His Excellency Ma Jianchun, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to The Gambia on Tuesday 14th April 2020.

“During the meeting, Ambassador Ma Jianchun re-echoed Chinese Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs pronouncements following the latter’s meeting with the African Group of Ambassadors in Beijing that the reported incidences were unacceptable to the Government of China and that efforts were being undertaken to address the situation.

“The Ministry appreciates the efforts undertaken thus far by the Central Government of the People’s Republic of China in dealing with the disturbing events in Guangzhou. 

“The Ministry further welcomes the assurances by the Chinese authorities that all foreigners are treated equally and there is a policy of zero tolerance for discrimination and racism against anybody including Africans.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad wishes to reassure all Gambians living in China particularly those living in Guangzhou that their interests will be protected. They are being advised to remain calm and to contact The Gambia Embassy in Beijing should they find themselves in any difficulties.”

African ambassadors in China have also expressed written concerns to the country’s foreign minister over what they call discrimination against Africans as the country seeks to prevent a resurgence of the coronavirus.

“The Group of African Ambassadors in Beijing immediately demands the cessation of forceful testing, quarantine and other inhuman treatments meted out to Africans,” the group said in a letter.

If you’re a Gambian or African in China who is affected by the discriminatory actions, Gambiana will like to hear from you. Get in touch [email protected]