Last week, nine Chinese workers and 65 Ethiopians were killed in the Ethiopian region of Ogaden during an attack by the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) on Ethiopian soldiers guarding an oilfield operated by the Zhongyuan Petroleum Exploration Bureau, a subsidiary of Sinopec. Seven other Chinese workers were held by the ONLF, but have been released in the meantime.
China's foreign policy is clear: China recognizes states and their recognized government and does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries. If in a country a new government comes to power, by elections or otherwise, the Chinese government will recognize it as legitimate and express the hope that under the new government, friendly and cooperative relations will be further expanded. This also means that China does not recognize separatist movements even dough they could have legitimate claims.
The Ogaden National Liberation Front says it does not recognize agreements between the Ethiopian government and foreign companies to explore for oil in the area in which is fights for independence.
Sinopec has already announced that the tragedy will not lead it to abandon its projects. On the other hand, the government of a state where it does business – in this case Ethiopia – may not have the resources to protect foreign workers and projects. It is also inconceivable that China would send its own armed security personnel.
This poses a dilemma for China: risk the lives of its workers or try to work out a deal with separatist movements. Both possibilities questionable. (The Financial Times: Attack may spur Beijing toward assertiveness)
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