China denies reports of involvement in Zimbabwe coup

China congratulated Zimbabwe's new president, Mnangagwa, and affirmed that it had nothing to do with the coup that led to Robert Mugabe's resignation.

Mr. Emmerson Mnangagwa (left) and Mr. Robert Mugabe. Photo: AFP.

Zimbabwean army chief Constantine Chiwenga visited Beijing shortly before the mutiny in the capital Harare, Zimbabwe, leading to suspicions of Chinese involvement. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang denied the information today.

"The visit was planned long in advance and approved by former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe," AFP quoted Mr. Canh as saying. "China has always adhered to the principle of non-interference in other countries' internal affairs."

Former President Mugabe, who led Zimbabwe since 1980, was forced to resign on November 21 after the military intervened. The coup in Zimbabwe began late on November 14. China said it respected Mugabe's decision and praised him as a "good friend" of Beijing.

Mr. Emmerson Mnangagwa, 75 years old, was chosen by the ruling ZANU-PF party as the new president and took office on November 24.

"We congratulate President Mnangagwa on his inauguration," Mr. Geng said. China believes Zimbabwe will further develop under Mr. Mnangagwa's leadership.

According to VNE