The Chinese government has promised improved mutually beneficial bilateral ties with Nigeria.
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Cui Jianchun made this known at an award ceremony to honour 51 outstanding Nigerians for their contributions to promoting Nigeria-China harmony and for excelling in their chosen fields of endeavours in Abuja on Wednesday.
The Ambassador who was represented at the event by Mr Zhang Yi, Minister Counsellor of the embassy said the event which is part of activities to commemorate this year’s 73rd National Day of China and 62nd Independence Anniversary of Nigeria is a testament to the growing mutual trust between both nations since the establishment of bilateral ties 51 years ago.
His words, “China and Nigeria established their bilateral relations in February 1971 and over the past decades, political mutual trust between both nations has been greatly enhanced, traditional friendship between both countries has been significantly improved. Substantial progress in our win-win cooperation has been made, and commercial, cultural and educational exchanges have been further promoted. We are very delighted to see that we have made tremendous achievements in all fields which have greatly benefitted our two peoples.”
“Over the past year, together with efforts made by Nigeria, we have witnessed gratifying progress on bilateral relations across board. On political consonance, our mutual trust is getting deepened. On economic cooperation, our efforts are bringing more benefits to the two peoples. On military and security collaboration, our joint efforts answer the call of the people. China supports Nigeria in her efforts to fight terrorism and insecurity and will provide more assistance within its capacity to enhance Nigeria’s security capability.”
The Ambassador congratulated the award recipients and pledged the commitment of the Chinese people to the growth and prosperity of Nigeria.
“Success doesn’t come by itself but comes from hard work and joint efforts. Commitment turns good wishes into reality. While testing the sweet fruits of our mutually beneficial cooperation, we should never forget those who worked tirelessly and made valuable contributions to our brotherly relationship. This is the reason why the Chinese embassy set up the October 1st award of China-Nigeria friendship to recognize those outstanding Nigerians for their excellent performance and contributions to strengthening diplomatic ties between both countries. Please allow me to extend my warmest congratulations to you. You are the builders of our cooperation bridge, you are the gardener of our friendship forest,” he added.
In their separate remarks, Senator Dame Nora Ladi Daduut, Deputy Chairman, Senate Committee on Culture and Tourism and Mr Nura Sani Kangiwa, Director General National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism harped on the need for improved cooperation between Nigeria and China.
Highlights of the event were the presentation of awards and cash gifts to 51 deserving Nigerians representing 51 years of unbroken friendship between Nigeria and China and cultural displays from the NYSC Troupe.
