President Bola Tinubu on Thursday in Abuja said the cordial relationships enjoyed between Nigeria, Republic of France, People’s Republic of China, and the Kingdom of Denmark over many decades should translate into mutual economic benefits for citizens, particularly in key areas of education, health and infrastructure.
The Nigerian leader further gave an assurance of expanding economic diplomacy, at a ceremony at the State House where he received Letters of Credence from the Ambassador of French Republic, Marc Fonbaustier; Ambassador of Kingdom of Denmark, Jens Ole Bach Hansen, and the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, Yu Dunhai.
President Tinubu, who is scheduled to pay a State visit to France, told the French Ambassador that his friendship with Emmanuel Macron, and the diplomatic ties between both countries, should be felt by citizens.
He called for support from France in the ongoing reforms in Nigeria, which seeks to strengthen institutions and improve livelihood of citizens.
The President said diplomatic and economic collaborations between the countries is essential for Africa, ECOWAS and Nigeria.
The French Ambassador affirmed the warmth, hospitality and diversity of Nigerian cultures, assuring that he will put all efforts to upscale the partnership for a shared economic prosperity.
In a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador, President Tinubu appreciated the President of the People’s Republic of China, Xi Jinping, for hosting him during his State visit to Beijing, and participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
He urged the Envoy to work hard with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to translate the agreements signed into reality.
The President said Nigeria will continue to leverage and build on the Chinese experience, especially in trade and infrastructure development.
The Chinese Ambassador thanked the President for honouring the invitation to visit in last September.
Yu said he had already started some programmes with some Nigerian States on improving yields for rice and yams, a mobile medical outreach to the less privileged, and educational exchange programmes that will enhance vocational and technical skills in the country.
President Tinubu also welcomed the Ambassador of Denmark, adding that he looked forward to improved relations.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)
