In a significant boost to China-Africa relations, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Nigeria's Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar in Beijing on Friday. The two leaders also participated in the inaugural Plenary Session of the China-Nigeria Inter-governmental Committee, marking a pivotal moment for bilateral cooperation.
Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, lauded Nigeria as a major African nation with substantial influence. He emphasized that the flourishing relationship between China and Nigeria would set a benchmark for China-Africa relations, fostering mutual development and revitalization.
“China is ready to work with Nigeria as a good brother who supports each other, a good partner for mutual benefit, a good friend who upholds fairness and justice, and a good partner who upholds peace and stability,” Wang stated. He outlined a vision where both nations collaborate to elevate their relations to new heights, benefiting their populations and contributing to global stability.
Echoing this sentiment, Nigerian Foreign Minister Tuggar affirmed Nigeria's unwavering commitment to the one-China principle. He expressed eagerness to deepen strategic communication, enhance high-level exchanges, and engage in closer practical cooperation with China. Tuggar highlighted Nigeria's readiness to join forces with China in uniting Global South countries, upholding multilateralism, and safeguarding fairness and justice.
The discussions also delved into China-Africa cooperation, with both ministers agreeing to collaborate for the upcoming Forum on China-Africa Cooperation scheduled in China this fall. Wang noted the pivotal role of the China-Nigeria Inter-governmental Committee in spearheading practical cooperation since its establishment over three years ago.
The meeting underscored the shared goals of China and Nigeria as leading developing nations. Both sides aim to build consensus, promote comprehensive cooperation, and inject new momentum into their bilateral and broader China-Africa relations. This partnership is envisioned to make significant contributions to building a community with a shared future for mankind.
Concluding the session, Tuggar praised the outcomes of the first plenary meeting and expressed Nigeria's willingness to deepen mutual trust with China, striving for enhanced cooperation across various sectors. The joint statement released after the session encapsulated the commitment of both nations to transform their cooperation plans into tangible results through practical actions.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
