President Nana Akufo-Addo has said Ghana has no problem with Beijing but said his administration will not renege on enforcing the mining laws to clamp down on illegal Chinese miners.

The president’s comments follow a strongly worded letter by the Chinese government to the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources warning of a diplomatic row if Ghana continues with the clamp down on Chinese miners.

Beijing says Chinese miners are victims of fraud, refusing to touch on the massive pollution of rivers and destruction of farm lands caused by the introduction of Chinese technology.

READ MORE: China warns Ghana over arrest of illegal Chinese miners

President Akufo-Addo, speaking at the coronation of Kwahu Obomenghene Nana Effa Opinamang III in the Eastern Region said: “Someone might think we have a problem with the Chinese government but that is not the case. We are only enforcing the laws.”

“We all know the laws of Ghana have no sympathy for nationality whatsoever. The law affects everybody including the Chinese. It does not give permits to visitors or anybody to engage in illegal mining. Whosoever is caught will be made to full rigor of the law.”

He added that Ghana will at all times strive to maintain a peaceful relationship with the Chinese government.