‘Nigeria is important to the world’ — China pledges increased economic cooperation

Xi Jinping, Chinese president, has pledged increased economic cooperation with Nigeria, saying Nigeria is important to Africa and the world.

The Chinese president spoke through Peng Qinghua, his special envoy and vice chairperson, standing committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC), People’s Republic of China, who met with President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja on Wednesday.

The Chinese delegation included Cui Jinachun, the country’s ambassador to Nigeria, and Zhang Yi, minister-counselor.

According to a statement issued by Tunde Rahman, an aide to Tinubu, Qinghua said the two countries at present had good bilateral relations and economic cooperation.

He said Chinese companies were doing well in Nigeria in railways, roads, hydropower and free trade zones.

While commending Tinubu’s plan to lead Nigeria to a new era of economic development and prosperity, the Chinese envoy, however, said there were areas where Nigeria could benefit from China.

He called on the two countries to share ideas and align strategies, urging the president to also create a more conducive environment for investment.

Responding, Tinubu said Nigeria is open for business and constructive partnerships, and would do business with any country ready to do business with the country.

He promised that his administration would work to promote ease of doing business.

“We need accelerated growth and we are ready to do business honestly with those ready to do business with us,” Tinubu was quoted as saying.

“We will continue to work to promote democracy in the West African sub-region. I’m a product of democracy and shall work day and night to advance democracy.

“We will fight terrorism and all forms of criminality. We can learn from each other, but we will remain non-aligned.”