In a significant move to bolster bilateral relations, China and Nigeria held the first plenary session of their Intergovernmental Committee on June 21, 2024. The meeting, co-chaired by China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Nigeria’s Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar, marked a milestone in over 50 years of diplomatic ties between the two nations.
The session highlighted the resilience and robustness of China-Nigeria relations, with both sides expressing commitment to deepen cooperation across political, economic, and cultural spheres. “Our partnership has withstood the test of time and changing international landscapes,” Wang Yi stated. “We are dedicated to enhancing mutual trust and pursuing shared development goals.”
Nigeria reaffirmed its adherence to the one-China policy, acknowledging Taiwan as an inalienable part of China’s territory, and opposed any form of separatist activities. The two countries agreed to support each other’s core interests and major concerns, emphasizing the importance of national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Addressing regional security, both nations pledged to work towards peace and stability in the Sahel region. China commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership role in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and Nigeria’s efforts in combating terrorism and transborder crimes. “We recognize Nigeria’s pivotal role in promoting stability in West Africa,” Wang Yi noted.
Economic cooperation was a focal point, with commitments to enhance collaboration in infrastructure, energy, telecommunications, finance, agriculture, mining, and industrial development. China expressed willingness to expand imports of Nigerian agricultural products, while Nigeria called for increased partnership in mining and solid mineral development. Both sides emphasized the importance of creating a business-friendly environment and safeguarding the rights of each other’s citizens.
The two countries underscored the significance of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), with Nigeria supporting China in hosting the 2024 FOCAC Summit. They highlighted the Belt and Road Initiative as a framework for advancing high-quality, practical cooperation and fostering new growth drivers in areas such as the digital, green, and blue economies.
On the international stage, China and Nigeria agreed to strengthen coordination in multilateral affairs, advocating for a multipolar world and inclusive globalization that benefits all. Nigeria applauded and supported China’s Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping.
Cultural and people-to-people exchanges also featured prominently, with plans to build cultural brands like the Happy Chinese New Year celebrations, China-Nigeria Culture Week, and joint film festivals. Both sides committed to enhancing mutual understanding and friendship through increased artistic exchanges and cooperation in creative industries.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmed commitment to maintain regular contact at all levels and to convene the second plenary session of the Intergovernmental Committee in the near future. “This session marks a new chapter in our strategic partnership,” Yusuf Tuggar remarked. “We look forward to continued collaboration for the mutual benefit of our peoples.”
Reference(s):
Joint statement of China, Nigeria intergovernmental committee session
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