Vice President Kashim Shettima was the special guest of his People’s Republic of China counterpart, Vice President Han Zheng, on Tuesday, October 17, 2023.
The latter played host to the Nigerian Vice President at the Diaoyutai State Guest House in Beijing, where they held a bilateral meeting and a joint press conference.
Both leaders discussed wide-ranging issues bordering on the common interest of both countries, such as deepening synergy in economic relations, trade and multicultural cooperation.
They also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, peace and security in Africa, and the Belt and Road Initiative.
Vice President Shettima expressed Nigeria’s appreciation for China’s support for its development and sovereignty, and reaffirmed its commitment to the One-China Policy. He also invited Chinese investors to take advantage of Nigeria’s abundant natural and human resources, and expressed Nigeria’s willingness to participate in the upcoming China-Africa Cooperation Forum in Dakar, Senegal.
Vice President Han praised Nigeria’s achievements in economic and social development, and reiterated China’s readiness to enhance cooperation with Nigeria in various fields, such as infrastructure, agriculture, energy, health, education, culture, and sports. He also assured Nigeria of China’s continued assistance in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, and welcomed Nigeria’s active involvement in the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Africa Cooperation Forum.
The two leaders witnessed the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding between their respective ministries and agencies, covering areas such as trade facilitation, digital economy, health care, education, and cultural exchanges. They also agreed to maintain frequent high-level contacts and consultations to further strengthen their strategic partnership.
