A US environmental group yesterday raised concerns over China's financing of infrastructure projects in Africa, as the country prepares to host the first meeting of the African Development Bank to be held in Asia.
International Rivers Network, a California-based group which opposes dams, said China should avoid the mistakes of 'western powers' in Africa.
'China should learn from the mistakes of western governments and not turn a blind eye to corruption and environmental destruction in the projects it promotes,' spokesman Peter Bosshard said.
'Projects that do not address the needs of the affected people will fuel conflicts and social disintegration. China should consult African civil society groups and affected communities in the projects it finances.'
International Rivers Network specifically cited the Merowe Dam in Sudan, being built by Chinese companies. It said the project would displace 70,000 residents and the government had forcefully put down protests against the dam. Beijing has faced international condemnation for its support of the Sudanese government, which has been accused of genocide.
The network also said the Mpanda Nkuwa Dam, to be built with Chinese financing in Mozambique, would have a major environmental impact and should be put on hold until alternatives could be explored.
The annual meeting of the African Development Bank, a regional lender, will officially begin tomorrow but events associated with the gathering began at the weekend. Premier Wen Jiabao will take part in the meeting, highlighting its importance in the eyes of the central government.