Nigeria, China reaffirm commitment to strengthening bilateral ties

Nigeria and China have reaffirmed commitment to strengthening bilateral ties especially in trade facilitation, capacity building, and people-to-people exchanges.
The Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with China at a high-profile meeting with the Chinese Foreign Minister, H.E. Wang Yi, in Abuja on Thursday.
The meeting also centred on further deepening bilateral cooperation in key areas of trade, investment, infrastructure, and cultural exchange.
Ambassador Tuggar, who expressed appreciation to Minister Wang Yi and the Chinese delegation for visiting Nigeria, maintained that the historical ties between the two nations
“I am deeply honoured to welcome you to Abuja, Nigeria, on this significant occasion. Today, we gather to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our great nations,” the minister said.
On the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and China, Ambassador Tuggar noted that both countries have benefited immensely from each other as the cooperation has yielded fruitful results.
“As we meet, I am reminded of the rich history of Nigeria-China relations, built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment to advancing peace, stability, and prosperity. Our cooperation has yielded fruitful results in various fields, including trade, investment, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange,” he said.
Tuggar acknowledged China’s landmark achievements in economic development and technological innovation, expressing Nigeria’s readiness to learn from China’s success story.
“As we explore new avenues for collaboration, I wish to acknowledge China’s remarkable progress in economic development, technological innovation, and global leadership.”
The minister told his visitors that Nigeria is striving and undergoing significant transformations to become a more prosperous and peaceful nation.
“Nigeria, too, is undergoing significant transformations, driven by our vision to become a more prosperous, peaceful, and democratic nation. Consequently, during our discussions, I look forward to exploring avenues to deepen our bilateral engagement, particularly in areas such as trade facilitation, capacity building, and people-to-people exchanges,” Amb . Tuggar stated.
“I am confident that our deliberations will yield meaningful outcomes, in fostering a brighter future for our nations and peoples.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering support for the One-China Policy which he noted has been free from disputes and pledged Nigeria’s continued diplomatic backing for China on the international stage.
“Our diplomatic relationship and continuous collaboration with China have been free from disputes, bringing significant benefits to both countries. We recognize the high-level visits between officials of both countries that have helped shape and strengthen our relations,” Amb.Tuggar stated
The minister assured that the four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed during the state visit of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to China from September 3 to 4, 2024, would be implemented.
“Recall that H.E. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, paid a state visit to China in September 2024, during which four MoUs were signed. Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to the terms of these agreements, which are currently at various stages of implementation.
“Once again, I extend a warm welcome to you, Your Excellency, and your delegation. Let us work together to elevate Nigeria-China relations to new heights,” he concluded.
On his part, Wang Yi, praised Nigeria’s role in Africa’s peace and development.
He stressed the importance of Nigeria-China relations, stating that China has always viewed and developed relations with Nigeria from a strategic height and a long-term perspective.
The meeting is part of his traditional first overseas visit of the New Year, aiming to discuss the implementation of the FOCAC Beijing meeting’s common understandings, particularly the 10 partnership actions.