Story by Bruce Chahwanda, Political Editor
ZIMBABWEAN economist, Mr Eddie Cross has been castigated for his recent utterances on Chinese investments in Zimbabwe after claiming that over 85 000 Chinese nationals reside in Zimbabwe.
The utterances in which he further claimed that the Chinese nationals intend to return to China after exploiting the country’s mineral resources have been described as malicious and misinformation meant to scuttle the country’s investment drive.
The Zimbabwe is Open for Business mantra continues to attract global capital in various sectors of the economy, with Chinese investors warming up to the local steel, energy and mining sectors.
Their participation in these key sectors of the economy have been instrumental in propelling the national development agenda.
The country’s detractors are, however, not happy with the obtaining situation, with others like economist Mr Eddie Cross embarking on a mission to tarnish destination Zimbabwe’s image.
ZANU PF Director of Information Cde Farai Marapira described Mr Cross’ sentiments as malicious saying they have no iota of truth which casts doubt on his credibility as an Economist.
Political analyst Mr Lazarus Sauti said Mr Cross was in fact supposed to highlight huge Chinese investments in the country and their impact on the economy.
“His statements are misleading considering that he said there are 85000 Chinese nationals in Zimbabwe, when recent figures from the government show that there are only 25000 who are investing in mining, manufacturing and energy sectors of the economy and these are impactful investments even in lithium. As an economist and respected political commentator, we expected him to articulate huge investments by the Chinese in this country,” he said.
The general agreement is that Mr Cross has crossed the line.
“I believe his utterances have undone all the good he has done before this day. And one would ask, to what gain? Information is available for him to cross check, United Arab Emirates is the biggest buyer of Zimbabwe Gold and Cross knows that but decided to mislead people,” he said.
Relations between Zimbabwe and China are cordial, with the Asian nation bankrolling the expansion of the Robert Mugabe International Airport, Hwange 7 and 8 expansion project, the New Parliament Building and the Manhize Steel Plant among other national projects.
