China & Zambia

China: The Government of China exerted pressure on the Government of Zambia, leading to the cancellation of RightsCon, due to the planned participation of Taiwanese civil society figures.

Zambia: The Government of Zambia postponed and effectively canceled RightsCon after receiving pressure from the Government of China regarding Taiwanese participants, citing 'diplomatic protocols' and 'administrative and security clearances'.

China: China implemented a zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries, aiming to enhance its soft power and increase trade, while excluding Eswatini due to its ties with Taiwan.

Zambia: Zambia is specifically mentioned as one of the 20 African countries that will benefit from the zero-tariff arrangement, allowing its goods to enter China duty-free.

China: China is a dominant player in Zambia's mineral sector, and the United States' new aid strategy is partly aimed at challenging China's influence in Africa.

Zambia: Zambia is accusing the United States of tying a $2 billion health assistance deal to access to its critical mineral assets and has rejected the terms, leading to stalled negotiations and accusations of corruption from the U.S. ambassador.

China: China exerted 'intense pressure' and 'economic coercion' on Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar, leading to the revocation of flight permits for Lai Ching-te's aircraft. China denies coercion and praises the actions of the African countries, reinforcing its 'one China' principle.

Zambia: Zambia was pressured by China to exclude Taiwanese activists from an international human rights conference, leading to its cancellation.

China: China is identified as an economic rival and the dominant player in the critical minerals market, which the United States is actively trying to counter by investing in projects like Phalaborwa.

Zambia: Zambia is one of the mineral-rich regions linked by the Lobito Corridor railway, which receives U.S. financial support.