By Micheal Onjewu
Newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai on Tuesday, August 12, 2024, presented his credentials to Benaoyegha Okoyen, the Director of Protocol at the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In his remarks, Ambassador Yu expressed his deep honour and sense of responsibility in taking on the role of the 15th Ambassador of China to Nigeria.
“For the past 53 years of diplomatic relations, the two countries have always respected each other, treated each other equally, deepened political mutual trust, and achieved fruitful pragmatic cooperation,” Yu said.
“The two countries are actively preparing for President Bola Tinubu’s attendance at the China-Africa Cooperation Forum and his state visit to China in September.
“I am willing to work together with people from all walks of life in Nigeria to ensure the complete success of President Tinubu’s visit and continuously elevate Sino-Nigeria relations to new heights,” he added.
Welcoming Ambassador Yu, Okoyen reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for his mission, emphasizing the long-standing friendship between Nigeria and China. He acknowledged China’s role as a key partner in Nigeria’s economic and social development through practical cooperation across multiple fields.
Okoyen reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to the One China principle, expressing optimism about the future of bilateral relations and the potential for enhanced cooperation between the two nations.
Ambassador Yu takes over from Cui Jianchun as the 15th Chinese envoy to Nigeria.