President Bola Ahmed Tinubu welcomed Wang Yi, China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, to the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday. Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, is in Nigeria for a two-day working visit as part of his tour of African nations.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The meeting is expected to focus on advancing the agreements and partnerships outlined during the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Beijing. Wang Yi highlighted that his visit aligns with China’s tradition of prioritizing Africa as the first overseas destination for its foreign minister each year.
“This visit is an opportunity to build on the ten partnership actions agreed upon during the FOCAC Summit and to deepen our comprehensive strategic partnership. I am confident that our discussions will yield new mutual understandings and strengthen our collaboration,” Wang Yi stated.
Nigeria’s Role in Africa-China Relations
Wang Yi acknowledged Nigeria’s pivotal role in Africa, describing it as a major African nation with global influence and a key member of the Global South. He emphasized China’s commitment to fostering solidarity and cooperation with Nigeria, particularly in areas of shared strategic interest.
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“Nigeria plays an irreplaceable role in Africa’s peace and development. China views its relationship with Nigeria from a strategic and long-term perspective, and we are committed to furthering our partnership for mutual benefit. Under the guidance of our two presidents, our cooperation has yielded significant benefits for both nations,” Wang Yi remarked.
Advancing Strategic Partnerships
The visit builds on President Tinubu’s participation in the FOCAC Beijing Summit and his state visit to China in September 2024. Both countries elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership during the summit, marking a new chapter in bilateral ties.
Wang Yi praised Nigeria’s contributions to the success of the FOCAC Summit, expressing optimism that ongoing engagements will lead to broader and more fruitful collaboration.
The meeting underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthening ties, fostering development, and pursuing shared goals for the benefit of their peoples.
