The People’s Republic of China has restated its commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Nigeria in different sectors that will guarantee mutual benefits for both countries.
Indications to this development emerged when Hu Chunhua, Vice-Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) paid a visit to Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, in Abuja on Friday.
Chunhua commended Tuggar for his diplomatic efforts to reposition Nigeria within the committee of nations especially within the context of China-Nigeria diplomatic relations adding that his country is always ready to deepen ties with Nigeria.
He said, “The Foreign Minister, Amb. Tuggar has been committed to the friendship between China and Nigeria. Last year, you visited China and co-hosted the China-Nigeria intergovernmental commission.
“In September 2024 you accompanied President Bola Tinubu to China, also in January the Chinese Foreign Affairs Minister, Wang Yi, visited Nigeria and held a meeting with you.
“You reached an extensive common understanding, so China is looking forward to working closely with Nigeria, to promote the friendship and cooperation between our two sides.”
In his reaction, Tuggar lauded Chunhua for the visit, saying the mutual exchanges between the two countries have become important to further deepen their diplomatic ties.
“It is through such contact and engagement that we will reaffirm the level of our diplomatic relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
“We congratulate China for a successful hosting of FOCAC and continuous partnership in actualising our ambition of infrastructural development, increased trade and investment in building a 21st century nation in Nigeria.
“In this time of global uncertainty, relations and partnerships, such as the one that exists between Nigeria and China are ones that we should continue to hold dear to our heart.
“To ensure they continue not just to exist, but to excel, we want to continue to assure you of our commitment to the one-China principle.
“At the same time, we thank you for recognising Nigeria’s leadership in West Africa within the fold of ECOWAS and in Africa as a whole,” Tuggar said.
