The Director of Trade and Economic Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bolaji Akinremi, has stated that President Bola Tinubu’s arrival for the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation marks a new dawn in Nigeria-China cooperation.
Mr Akinremi said this while answering reporters’ questions ahead of Mr Tinubu’s arrival in Beijing, China, on Sunday for the forum that is expected to begin on September 4 and end on September 6.
“This is a multi-sectoral visit for President Tinubu; the Chinese government is honouring him with such an official visit at this time by recognising Nigeria as number one in Africa,” Akinremi said.
He emphasized the significance of the visit, saying, “Nigeria and China have enjoyed a robust relationship spanning not less than 50 years, with Nigeria being China’s number one trading partner in Africa.”
Akinremi highlighted the importance of FOCAC, stating, “FOCAC is a crucial platform for strengthening economic, political and cultural ties between China and African nations; the forum established in 2000 has become a significant mechanism for ensuring win-win China and African countries cooperation.”
The director noted that Tinubu’s visit aims to yield benefits for Nigeria in terms of investments in infrastructure and technology development to boost the economy.
He added, “Several MoUs will be signed during the visit, and President Tinubu will also receive the delegation from Huawei and China Railway as commitment towards deepening cooperation between them.”
Akinremi concluded, “Nigeria and China are poised to take their relationship to new heights through this visit, building on the foundation laid over five decades ago. Their comprehensive strategic partnership is a testament to the shared vision by both nations to promote economic growth, development and cooperation.”