Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, has affirmed China’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s growing role in regional and global affairs. During a meeting on Thursday with Nigeria’s Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Wang emphasized the importance of strengthening solidarity and cooperation between the two nations.
“China has always viewed the development of China-Nigeria relations from a strategic and long-term perspective,” Wang said. He highlighted Nigeria’s significance as a major African country with global influence and an indispensable player in Africa’s quest for peace and development.
Recalling Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s successful visit to China last year, Wang noted that the elevation of bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership has opened new horizons for cooperation. Under the guidance of both countries’ leaders, China and Nigeria have achieved remarkable results, bringing tangible benefits to their people.
Wang called on both countries to support each other on issues concerning their core interests and to work towards mutual benefit. He expressed China’s readiness to implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and to advance the 10 partnership action plans in Nigeria.
Emphasizing the alignment of China’s Belt and Road Initiative with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Wang proposed deepening practical ties through infrastructure development, expanding trade and financial collaboration, and enhancing investment cooperation. He also urged Nigeria to safeguard the safety and legitimate rights of Chinese enterprises and personnel in the country.
On global issues, Wang appreciated Nigeria’s support for China’s Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative. He reiterated China’s unwavering support for Africa’s advocacy for climate justice at the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference and expressed a willingness to strengthen coordination with Nigeria and other African countries to protect the development interests of the Global South.
Foreign Minister Tuggar praised the deep historical ties between Nigeria and China, rooted in mutual respect and trust. “Nigeria and China have no differences, and strengthening our cooperation aligns with our mutual interests,” he said. Tuggar expressed admiration for China’s achievements in economic development and technological innovation and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fostering friendship and cooperation.
Reiterating Nigeria’s adherence to the one-China principle, Tuggar pledged continued support for China’s stance on the international stage. He also expressed condolences over the recent earthquake in China’s Xizang Autonomous Region and commended the swift and effective disaster relief efforts by the Chinese government.
Both ministers underscored the success of the FOCAC Beijing Summit and committed to advancing the implementation of its outcomes, aiming to elevate China-Nigeria relations to a higher level.
Reference(s):
Wang Yi: China supports Nigeria's bigger role in region, world
cgtn.com
