NIGERIA NEWS
Trade Volume Between Nigeria and China is the Highest in Africa – Shettima
Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed strong satisfaction with the growing trade volume between Nigeria and China, noting that it is one of the highest in Africa. He emphasized that the trade relationship between the two countries has seen remarkable growth, reaching $22.6 billion in 2023, a figure that continues to increase by 33 percent annually.
This development, according to the Vice President, reflects the mutual respect and solid friendship shared between Nigeria and China, despite challenges faced by Nigeria’s economy. He reassured China’s delegation, led by Mr. Zhang Qingwei, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, of Nigeria’s unwavering support and commitment to strengthening the bilateral relationship.
During a meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday, Vice President Shettima highlighted that Nigeria and China have maintained a strong partnership for over 50 years, dating back to 1971. This long-standing friendship has been marked by numerous high-level visits between the two countries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to China in September 2024. These visits have contributed significantly to deepening cooperation and fostering stronger ties, and Shettima reiterated the importance of continuing to build on this momentum for the benefit of both nations.
The Vice President also emphasized the importance of enhancing South-South cooperation, calling for greater engagement between China and Nigeria. He expressed admiration for China’s culture, traditions, and its growing influence on the global stage.
Shettima underscored the need for further collaboration, particularly in areas of security and technological advancement. He specifically pointed out Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its security infrastructure, stating that peace and development are interlinked. Nigeria, according to Shettima, is making strides in improving its security architecture and is eager to work with China to enhance these efforts through technological cooperation and support.
Mr. Zhang Qingwei, leading the Chinese delegation, welcomed Nigeria’s commitment to a deeper partnership, describing the relationship as a strategic one that is now entering a new phase. He referred to the recent announcement by President Tinubu and Chinese President Xi Jinping to elevate Nigeria-China relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
Qingwei affirmed China’s readiness to assist Nigeria in its developmental goals, particularly in economic diversification, and reiterated China’s support for Nigeria in addressing its security challenges. The delegation, which included key Chinese figures such as Ambassador Yu Dunhai and other members of the National People’s Congress, stressed the importance of continued political and economic collaboration to propel both nations forward.
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