The Gambian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad has expressed concern over reports of maltreatment of Africans, including Gambian nationals, in Guangzhou in China.
According to reports, Gambians and other African nationals have been subjected to forceful eviction, quarantine and multiple compulsory tests for the Coronavirus by local authorities.
In a statement, in Banjul on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs called for a corrective measure to be taken over the reported incidences.
The statement said that the Gambian Foreign Minister, Dr. Mamadou Tangara, has communicated Gambia’s position and feelings during a meeting with Ma Jianchun, the Chinese Ambassador to The Gambia.
According to the statement, during the meeting, Ambassador Jianchun re-echoed pronouncements by the Chinese Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs 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 made to address the situation.
The statement noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs appreciates the efforts undertaken so 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.