Zambian President Levy Mwanawasa has apologized to the Chinese government Thursday over the remarks made by the opposition Patriotic Front presidential candidate Michael Sata that he would chase away Chinese investors once he won the elections.

Addressing a public rally in Lusaka, Mwanawasa said it was irresponsible for anyone to threaten to chase away Chinese investors who have massively contributed to the development of the country through construction of railways, roads and industries.

He cited the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) and many roads in the country as some of the infrastructure put up by the Chinese.

"Publicly, I apologize. We value the friendship of the Chinese people and we will continue to cherish their assistance," the president said.

Mwanawasa disclosed that the Chinese investors had indicated that they would set up more development projects, including improvement of water reticulation in various parts of the country.

He has since pleaded with the Chinese investors in Zambia not to suspend the ongoing development projects they are working on.

The Association of Chinese Community in Zambia (ACCZ) have complained over Sata's statement and have disclosed that some investors were consider suspending their projects until after the September 28 general elections concerning Sata's hostility.