By Lawal Sale
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai says China’s support towards Nigeria’s infrastructural development has been invaluable.
He made the remarks on Friday in Abuja during a reception to mark the 75th Anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
At the event, Mr. Yu stated that the initiatives such as the construction of railways and roads have not only enhanced connectivity within Nigeria but have also fostered economic growth and job creation.
“The recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held a few weeks ago stands as beacon of hope for our continued collaboration”, he said.
He also said the agreements reached during the Forum with President Bola Tinubu signified a renewed commitment to strengthening our bilateral ties.
According to the envoy, the over ten cooperation agreements signed will pave the way for further investments in critical areas such as energy production and technology transfer-areas that are vital for Nigeria’s sustainable development.
He emphasised the need for the National Assembly to deploy the necessary legislative framework to support the implementation of the agreements signed between the two countries.
“As we work forward to future endeavours together, let us reaffirm our commitments to enhancing Cooperation between Nigeria and China, as it is imperative that we work hand-in-hand to address common challenges while seizing opportunities for growth that benefit both nations, ” he said.
In his remarks at the occasion, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas pledged the National Assembly’s resolve to deploy the necessary legislative framework to support the implementation of the agreements signed between the two countries.
The speaker further acknowledged the “deepening relationship between Nigeria and China” , emphasising that the two countries have an existing partnership built on mutual respect and shared aspirations.
He noted that since its founding in 1949, China has undergone transformative changes that have propelled it into a position of global prominence.
“It is a celebration of China’s enormous contributions to the socio-economic development of the world and its worthy accomplishments in global high-tech advancement.
“We are therefore proud to rejoice and associate with the People’s Republic of China and the fascinating period of national commemorative ceremony,” the speaker stated.
It will be recalled that Nigeria had over the years recorded significant achievements under the frameworks of Belt and Road Initiative and FOCAC with projects already completed such as Abuja-Kaduna standard gauge rail line, Lagos-Ibadan railway, Lekki deep seaport in Lagos, Abuja mono rail system, Lagos blue line Rail Mass Transit, Airports terminal rehabilitation among other developmental projects.
The event was graced by members of the National Assembly, members of the Federal Executive Council, members of the Diplomatic Corp, Chinese community in Nigeria and friends of China.
-*Sale is an Abuja-based Global Affairs*
(vitalnewsngr.com)
