In a bid to accelerate Nigeria’s industrialisation and economic diversification, the Federal Government is deepening its strategic partnership with China.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this known when she received the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, in Abuja.
Amb. Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted the strong diplomatic ties between both nations, spanning over five decades, and stressed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to leveraging China’s expertise in sectors like electric vehicle production, digital technology, renewable energy, and agriculture.
She also acknowledged China’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s infrastructure, particularly in road and railway development.
As Nigeria pushes for industrialisation, the Minister appealed to China to grant Nigeria the same trade tariff exemptions it has extended to 33 other African nations.
She further noted that many Nigerian universities are keen to offer Chinese language studies, reflecting the deepening cultural ties between both countries.
With trade between both nations surpassing $21 billion last year, the Chinese envoy reaffirmed his country’s dedication to expanding cooperation, including financial collaborations such as the recently renewed $2 billion currency swap deal.
He also expressed China’s support for Nigeria’s bid to join the G-20, underscoring the country’s growing global influence.
With renewed commitments on both sides, the partnership between Nigeria and China is poised to drive economic growth and technological advancement, bringing tangible benefits to the people.
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