In a significant move to strengthen ties, China and Nigeria held their first Intergovernmental Committee session on June 21, 2024. 🌍🤝 The meeting, co-chaired by China's Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi and Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar, marked a new chapter in the longstanding friendship between the two nations.
Over 50 Years of Friendship
The two countries looked back on more than half a century of diplomatic relations that have weathered global changes and emerged stronger. They celebrated a tradition of mutual trust, benefiting from practical cooperation, supporting each other on international stages like the UN, G20, and BRICS, and exchanging vibrant cultural connections.
A United Front for Global Development
Nigeria reaffirmed its support for the one-China principle, emphasizing that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory and opposing any separatist activities. The two nations agreed to promote reunification, ethnic unity, and social harmony.
Together, they stressed the importance of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and Nigeria expressed support for China hosting the 2024 FOCAC Summit. 💡 They also applauded initiatives like the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping, aiming to build a community with a shared future for humanity.
Boosting Economic and Security Cooperation
The session highlighted plans to enhance cooperation in infrastructure, electricity, telecommunications, finance, agriculture, industry, mining, and free trade zones. China is eager to expand imports of Nigerian agricultural products, while Nigeria seeks increased partnerships in mining and solid mineral development. 🚀
Both countries committed to creating a business-friendly environment, protecting the rights and dignity of each other's citizens, and opposing trade protectionism.
On security, China expressed commitment to support Nigeria in upgrading its science and technology in the military sector and enhancing capacity to tackle both traditional and non-traditional security challenges. 🔒 The two sides aim to strengthen exchanges between military and security departments to maintain regional and world peace.
Cultural Exchanges and Future Plans
Recognizing the power of cultural connections, China and Nigeria plan to continue building cultural brands like the Happy Chinese New Year festivities, China-Nigeria Culture Week, China-Nigeria Film Festival, and the Abuja International Art Fair. 🎉 They aim to promote mutual understanding through art, tourism, and creative industries.
The session concluded with both sides expressing readiness to maintain regular contact and prepare for the second Plenary Session of the China-Nigeria Intergovernmental Committee. This ongoing collaboration promises a brighter future for both nations and contributes to global peace and development. 🌟
Reference(s):
Joint statement of China, Nigeria intergovernmental committee session
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