Obasanjo, Lai Mohammed hail China-Nigeria diplomatic relations at 50
Philip Clement, Abuja
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has hailed the relationship between Nigeria and China describing it as cordial and beneficial to both parties.
The former President said recently while declaring open the One world, One Spring Huaxing Shrines/2021 spring festival gala which also marked the 50th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and China.
Obasanjo, who spoke virtually, commended the organisers for putting the event together while expressing delight with the activities of the Chinese community in Nigeria particularly the diplomatic and business community for their contributions to the development of the country.
“The efforts and contributions of such bodies as the China Industrial and Commercial Enterprises Association, Huaxing Art Troop, body of Overseas Chinese nationals, and donations to education and scholarship are most appreciated and commendable,” Obasanjo said.
Also in his remarks, Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed represented by the Director-General, National Center for Arts and Culture & President, World Craft Council, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe said Nigeria and China enjoy one of the best bilateral diplomatic and cultural relationships in the world.
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He noted the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1971 and the strategic partnership accord in 2015, adding that the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding during the forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit last year served as a clear statement to the robust relationship between both countries.
According to the Information Minister, “China remains one of Nigeria’s key allies, with key bilateral trade and strategic cooperation, as well as trading import and export partnerships.
With 80% of Nigeria’s population indicating a positive perception of Nigeria-China relations, according to the BBC, Nigeria is clearly one of the most Pro-China nations in the world,” he said.
He further stated that both countries share similarities with regards to their strategic positioning in their respective continents, their political and economic influence as well as population strength, which he said fosters opportunities for cultural commonalities and diversity among the two countries.
He praised the cultural exchanges between both countries and the exploits of the Huaxing Art Troupe in spreading the beauty of Chinese cultural performances to Nigeria citizens.
