From September 7th to 9th, François Nkuna Balumuene, Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to China, visited Zijin Mining’s headquarters. On the 7th, he met with Chen Jinghe, Executive Chairman of the company, in Xiamen.
Ambassador Balumuene praised Zijin Mining for its rapid growth and congratulated the company for its various feats in the DRC and across Africa. He said that as the largest Chinese mining company operating in the DRC, Zijin Mining had fulfilled its social responsibilities through many programs and received extensive recognition. This arguably positions it as the best Chinese company in the country.
Underscoring the DRC government’s significant emphasis on mining investments, the ambassador noted that the government aims to elevate the mining industry and increase the value added in the mining value chain. Ambassador Balumuene said he hopes to see Zijin Mining continuously increase investments in the DRC to boost local employment, tax revenue, and economic growth at large. Meanwhile, the DRC government will maintain robust support for Zijin Mining as it expands investments in the country, which will facilitate socio-economic advancement in both China and the DRC.
Chairman Chen Jinghe thanked Ambassador Balumuene for his strong support for Zijin Mining. Noting the DRC’s rich mineral resources and Zijin Mining’s financial and technological strengths, Chairman Chen said that there is immense potential for collaboration between China and the DRC in the mining sector and that further investments in the country will be of great significance for the company’s growth.
He stated that Zijin Mining is committed to the purpose of Mining for a Better Society and the principle of value creation and development for all. Upholding stringent ESG principles and international standards, Zijin Mining will continuously contribute to socio-economic development, employment, and the improvement of living standards in the DRC, while complying with the laws and regulations of China and the DRC, safeguarding employee health and safety, and ensuring operational safety.