By Joy Odor
The Minister of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Nigeria, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar on Thursday received the Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi to deepen diplomatic ties, cooperation between the two nations and advance peace, stability, and prosperity.
During his welcome address while meeting Wang Yi who is on tour visit to Nigeria, reminded of the rich history of Nigeria-China relations, built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment.
According to him, the cooperation has yielded fruitful results in various fields, including trade, investment, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange, among others.
The MFA Minister maintained that as they explore new avenues for collaboration, acknowledged China’s remarkable progress in economic development, technological innovation, and global leadership.
Amb. Tuggar assured his certainty of Nigeria’s commitment to supporting the One-China-Principle and continued support for China at the International stage.
He affirmed that Nigeria’s diplomatic relationship and continuous collaboration with China had been free from disputes, which had brought substantial benefits to both countries.
“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
“I am confident that our deliberations will yield meaningful outcomes, in fostering a brighter future for our nations and peoples.
“In addition, Nigeria has recognized the high-level visits between the officials of the two countries that have helped in shaping and strengthening the existing relations between both countries.
“Recall that Nigeria President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, (GCFR) paid a State visit to China from 3rd to 4th September, 2024, and was received by his Chinese counterpart, during which four (4) MoUs were signed.
“Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to the terms of the MoUs, 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” Amb Tuggar ended.
Meanwhile, the Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi in his response, informed that his visit to Nigeria is aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between China and Nigeria, fostering cooperation in key areas such as trade, investment, and infrastructure development.
According to him, his visit is expected to deepen diplomatic ties, promote mutual understanding, explore new avenues for collaboration and to discuss the implementation of the FOCAC Beijing meeting’s common understandings, particularly the 10 partnership actions.
The visit underscores China’s commitment to enhancing its partnership with Nigeria, driving growth, and promoting peace and stability in the region.
He lauded Nigeria’s role in Africa’s peace and development, describing the country as a major African country with global influence and an important member of the global South.
Yi expressed China’s commitment to furthering solidarity and cooperation with Nigeria, particularly in pursuing development and vitalization.
“During his stay, Wang Yi is scheduled to hold high-level talks with government officials, discussing pressing global issues, regional security, and economic development.
He arrived at 7:15 pm local time, where he was warmly received by Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed PhD, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other top government officials, including the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Yu Dunhai.
