Federal government seeks China’s cooperation in economic diversification

Says currency swap bolstering bilateral trade
Federal Government is seeking the assistance of the People’s Republic of China in the diversification of the nation’s economy, especially relating to industrialisation.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this in her office at the Tafawa Balewa House, Abuja, when the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, paid her a courtesy visit.

She told the envoy that Nigeria had had a robust relationship with China spanning over five decades, and noted that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had prioritised the diversification and strengthening of the nation’s economy.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted the President’s commitment to strategic partnership with China, citing the establishment of electric vehicle plants, digital communication, renewable energy, all aspects of digital technology, and agriculture, as major areas in Nigeria that needed China’s support.

The minister also stated that the country was taking steps to improve its power sector and modernise its ports, towards enabling investments.

The minister further expressed Nigeria’s resolve to expand cultural relations with China even as she pointed out that many Nigerian youths were inclined to learning Chinese Language.

“It’s quite interesting that a large population of Nigerian youths are inching towards the Chinese language. Many Nigerian universities are desirous to offer the Chinese language. Chinese had become the language of trade in the world.

“Nigeria-China will continue to relate, not just bilaterally, but multilaterally. We expect that we will continue to get the support of China, we will always reciprocate that multilaterally,” the minister stated.

In his response, the Chinese ambassador declared that Nigeria-China relations aimed at sustaining growth and expansion for both countries.

He described Nigeria as a great country that had remained a strategic partner to China.

Dunhai noted President Tinubu’s first official visit to China and participation in the Forum of China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), took the relationship between both countries to greater heights.

He said: “We have a comprehensive strategic partnership with Nigeria. China would want Nigeria to play a big role in the international scene. We want Nigeria to become a member of the G-20. These will all provide an opportunity for China and Nigeria to further work together closely.

“For China, we have been very consistent. We give grant to any African country; we don’t give any conditions.”