That is a stunning indication of the importance of China to Zimbabwe, especially to its elite, and of the complete eclipse of the influence of Britain as the former colonial power. Zimbabwe is only one of many countries where China is acquiring an overseas empire of investment and influence. This year China opened its first permanent overseas military base in Djibouti in the Horn of Africa. Otto InglisEdinburgh• Zimbabwe is not the only country with a failed leader who refuses to resign after wrecking the economy and losing their mandate to govern. Margaret PhelpsPenarth, Glamorgan• Join the debate – email guardian.letters@theguardian.com• Read more Guardian letters – click here to visit gu.com/letters

Source: The Guardian November 20, 2017 19:07 UTC