China, represented by the China General Chambers of Commerce in Nigeria, has announced its commitment to strengthening trade relations with Nigeria. This declaration was made during the opening of the 3rd Belt and Road China-Nigeria Economic and Trade Exhibition in Abuja on Thursday.
Liu Jiang, Deputy General Manager of CCECC Nigeria Limited and representative of the Chairman of the China General Chambers of Commerce in Nigeria, highlighted the forum as a pivotal starting point to foster continued economic and trade cooperation. He noted the importance of collaboration with local partners to align with the positive trajectory of China-Nigeria relations.
Liu noted that several landmark projects spanning oil and gas, infrastructure, manufacturing, communications, agriculture, mining, and the internet have been successfully completed. He stated that the economic and trade exchange would generate more opportunities for enterprises in both China and Nigeria, fostering mutually beneficial cooperation.
Highlighting the Belt and Road initiative proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Liu explained its objectives, including policy communication, infrastructure connectivity, unimpeded trade, financial integration, and people-to-people exchange among nations. He also referenced the recent Belt and Road Forum for international cooperation in Beijing, where President Xi Jinping met with Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima, expressing confidence in the future development of bilateral relations.
Jaafaru Yakubu, Chairman of the Committee on Nigeria-China Relations, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria, expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for the Belt and Road initiative, which has brought considerable benefits to Nigeria. He acknowledged the initiative’s role in fostering economic development, infrastructural enhancement, and cultural exchange between the two nations.
Yakubu highlighted the significant impact of the Belt and Road Initiative on Nigeria, stressing its contribution to transportation infrastructure and economic integration. He assured the commitment of the Federal House of Representatives to strengthening bilateral and diplomatic ties between Nigeria and China through appropriate legislative measures.