NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Foreign

China’s agricultural sector to reach 1.4trn jin—Economist

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By Fortune Abang

Yao Jingyuan, former Chief Economist of the National Bureau of Statistics of China, has projected the Chinese agricultural sector national grain output to reach new high record of 1.4 trillion jin.

Jingyuan, who is well-versed in China’s economic indicators with not less than four decades of experience in economic analysis, disclosed this at the virtual 2024 annual meeting of Harvard Business Review in Beijing.

According to him, investing in China truly means investing in valuable opportunities.

“The 1.4 trillion jin approximately 700 million tonnes so far recorded this year marked an increase of about 100 billion jin; that is 50 thousand tonnes compared to the average of the past nine years.

“The Chinese economy is intricate; yet one of the most straightforward ways to assess it is through agricultural and industrial output.

“In 2024, China has recorded a significant grain harvest and substantial growth in industrial output, underscoring its stable and robust production capacity.

“This achievement not only signifies several consecutive years of ample grain production in China, but also reinforces the country’s food security.”

He emphasised the importance of stable agricultural product supply rather than focusing solely on statistics.

Jingyuan added that one should observe the food market, abundance of meat, poultry, egg and vegetables, along with a decline in prices.

On the industrial sector, he explained that equipment manufacturing grew by 7.5 per cent, while high-tech manufacturing surged by 9.1 per cent in the first three quarters of this year.

“Manufacturing remains the backbone of the industry and is gaining momentum, particularly high-tech sector; energy consumption per unit of added value among large industrial enterprises decreased by 3.8 per cent year-on-year in the same period.

“Exports, a key driver of economic growth, have performed impressively this year, in the first three quarters, China’s exports increased by 6.2 per cent year-on-year, reflecting the country’s sustained competitiveness in global trade.

“These strong export performances are attributed to China’s robust comprehensive industrial and supply chains, formidable production capacity, and the vitality of the private sector, which constitutes 55 per cent of the economy.

“Therefore, I anticipate that China’s import and export activities will maintain positive momentum over the next two months”.

He commended the Chinese government for policies addressing challenges and boosting investment in infrastructure, industry, and property, noting industrial investment in large-scale equipment upgrades as especially promising.

Jingyuan said that data from the National Development and Reform Commission in 2023, indicated that investment in equipment for key sectors such as industry and agriculture in China amounted to approximately 4.9 trillion yuan.

“The government plans to increase this investment by 25 per cent over four years, targeting 7 trillion yuan by 2027, which translates to an annual addition of 350 billion yuan in new industrial investment.”

Jingyuan said he anticipated that China would continue to issue ultra-long special treasury bonds in 2025 and expressed strong confidence in the future of the Chinese economy.

He further called for collaboration across all sectors of society to seize emerging development opportunities.

“We must believe that China will overcome challenges and restore public confidence and expectations.

“We have faced severe obstacles during our most trying times, such as the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Asian financial crisis in 1998, and the U.S. subprime mortgage crisis in 2008.

“We are in a much stronger position than we were in those situations; and we will succeed once again,”  he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

Foreign , Science & Tech

We’ll empower more Nigerian girls with technology—-Korean Ambassador 

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By Jessica Dogo
The Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, Kim Pankyu, has said that the Korean government will continue to support Nigeria’s quest to empower young girls with technology.
The ambassador spoke at the final of the National Girls in ICT competition organised by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, supported by Plan International, on Thursday in Abuja.
Pankyu was represented by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KIOCA) country Director, Nigeria, SON Sungil.
He said that KIOCA’s engagement with the programme showed its commitment to empowering young girls with technology and innovation in Nigeria.
“Our partnership also signifies the positive outcomes of KIOCA’S long standing digital transfers formation journey with the ministry and the people of Nigeria.
“KIOCA and the Korean government will remain committed to working along side the ministry to help achieve Nigeria’s government renewed hope agenda.
“It is, indeed, a great pleasure to contribute to the success of today’s event by providing resources to this place ” he said.
He said that the journey had been quite tough, adding that a lot of hard work was required.
According to him, KOICA has supported smart schools in Nigeria from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nasarawa, Cross Rivers, Ekiti, Kano and Bauchi states, and hoping to spread the gesture across the country.
“We have been working together with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).
“We recently provided quality ICT facilities to six smart schools where students and teachers can have access to teaching and learning resources.
“That is why we called on them in this competition, believing that it can be a good opportunity for them,” he said.
The Country Director, Plan International,
Mr Usie Emmamuzou, said that Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields had become the cornerstone of modern innovation and advancement.
Emmamuzou, who was represented by Victoria Chenge, said that investing in STEM education and empowering girls would pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future.
He said that despite progress made, girls and women worldwide continue to face numerous challenges, including sexual and physical abuse, forced marriages, female genital mutilation, and gender-based violence.
“Statistics reveal a concerning trend, few girls and young women pursue ICT courses in secondary and tertiary institutions, resulting in an alarmingly low number of females in these fields .
“This disparity underscores the need for urgent investment in the future of our country, particularly in STEM education,” he said.
He, commended the Ministry of Communications Innovations and Digital Economy for efforts dedicated to supporting girls’ education, protection, and empowerment.
He said that Plan International had committed resources to ensuring girls’ safety and success in their chosen disciplines.
“Our strategy focuses on empowering girls to drive change and achieve gender equality in all aspects of life.
“As part of our commitment, we are donating three laps and nine Raspberry Pi to the winners of this competition.
“This contribution symbolises our dedication to fostering a more inclusive and innovative future,” he said.
The Special Adviser to the Minister of Communications Innovations and Digital Economy, Maryam Gwadabe, said that the aim of the competition was to bridge the digital gender divide.
Gwadabe, who is also the Project Lead for National Girls in ICT competition, said that the programme would bring more girls to pursue careers in ICT, build digital innovation that solve community challenges.
“Our plan is to make sure that we bridge the digital gender divide, bring more girls to pursue careers in ICT and build digital innovation that solve community challenges.
“I am really grateful for their support, especially giving us safeguard in terms of technical support and bringing the girls from the six geopolitical zones of the country.
“I thank them for also supporting us in designing and planning the whole process of the event,” he said.
Fatima Nazir, a student of Sweet Haven High School, Kano, who spoke on behalf of the overall winner in the competition expressed excitement over their success.
Nazir urged other students to be confident, resilient and have perseverance, adding that there are so many opportunities to explore out there.
“I feel very excited, amazed,6 happy and delighted. I plan to make our app become something bigger and also achieve a career in tech generally.
“They should not give up and be confident in whatever they do, and have perseverance and resilience so that we can have more opportunities to take part in competitions like this and accomplish something. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman
Foreign

Nigeria, Germany, EU unveil programmme to boost sustainable energy sector

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By Mark Longyen

The European Union (EU), Germany and Nigeria have unveiled the third phase of the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP), aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s sustainable energy sector.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme seeks to support the federal government’s effort by  fostering investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency and rural electrification.

Speaking at the event, which was also the first NESP III Steering Committee meeting, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, Mahmuda Mamman, appreciated the EU and Germany for their support.

According to him, attracting more investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency, is in accord with the objectives of Nigeria’s Electricity Act 2013, which aims at stabilising the nation’s electricity market.

“The Ministry continues to appreciate the EU and German Government for their continuous support to Nigeria, especially for ensuring energy security in the most affordable and sustainable manner.

“The third phase of the programme is “a welcome idea” that will build on the achievements of NESP Il by attracting more investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency,” Mamman said.

Ms. Inga Stefanoeicz, Head of EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Green and Digital Economy, said the EU would continue to support Nigeria to achieve its energy security plans.

According to her, this will go a long way to achieve a sustainable energy future for the country through the increase of renewables in its electricity mix.

Stefanoeicz said that achieving a cleaner future was the business of all stakeholders, adding that the EU would continue to support the Nigerian government to achieve its energy security plans.

“This is to also achieve a sustainable energy future through the increase of renewables in its electricity mix.

“The EU is pleased to have commissioned additional funding for the third phase of the programme to continue supporting the development of various frameworks and innovative models.

“The EU is bringing a new landscape to the concept of electricity franchising, attracting renewable energy investments and ensuring reliable power supply to its beneficiaries,” she said.

Germany’s Deputy Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Johannes Lehne, in his remark, re-affirmed the German government’s commitment to Nigeria toward achieving its energy transition targets.

The envoy added that Germany and its partners would continue to support Nigeria’s set targets in the nation’s Energy Transition Plan(ETP).

“Technologies and investments for renewable energy and energy efficiency will be key for diversifying Nigeria’s energy mix and decarbonising the five critical sectors identified in the Energy Transition Plan (ETP).

“The third phase of NESP was commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) with 8.9 million Euros in May this year.

“The EU has recently commissioned an additional 9 million Euros, which increases the total budget of the NESP programme to 17.9 million Euros,” he said.

Mr Duke Benjamin, Head of Programme, NESP, noted that active participation of (and collaboration with) the public and private stakeholders were critical to improve availability and reliability of energy in Nigeria.

He said NESP Ill would offer support, ranging from sustainable energy generation for rural communities, healthcare centres and businesses, efficient utilisation of energy, bridging the energy and electricity data gaps.

Benjamin added that it would also strengthen private sector investments and develop the capacities of regulatory agencies and local financial institutions.

“So far, NESP has supported the Nigerian government in creating an enabling environment for local and international investments to thrive in energy efficiency, renewable energy and rural electrification investments.

“These efforts have fostered investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency and rural electrification, as part of NESP’’s framework in Nigeria,” he said.

NAN reports that NESP, which was first commissioned in 2013, is a technical assistance programme co-funded by the EU and the German Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

The NESP is being implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in collaboration with the Nigerian Ministry of Power.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Foreign

Israel-Palestine conflict: Saudi Arabia hosts Global Alliance meeting

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By Mufutau Ojo

Saudi Arabia Minister of Foreign Affairs, Faisal bin Farhan, has inaugurated the first meeting of the Global Alliance on implementation of a two-state solution to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

 

The coalition, announced last month in partnership with international allies, was to mobilise global support for a viable and sustainable two-state resolution of the conflict.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the inauguration of the meeting on Wednesday in Riyadh, underscores Saudi Arabia leadership in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.

 

Opening the meeting, the foreign minister welcomed Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and other international delegations dedicated to the peace-building efforts.

 

He expressed concern at the escalating violence in Palestine and Lebanon, stressing the urgent need for the international community’s intervention to halt actions that threaten regional stability.

 

The minister called for an immediate ceasefire while advocating the release of hostages and detainees as well as the establishment of accountability mechanisms to address ongoing violations.

 

The minister reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s support for UNRWA’s crucial role in delivering humanitarian aid amid the ongoing challenges in Palestinian territories.

 

He urged the global community to bolster efforts toward preserving the two-state solution as the foundation for long-term peace in the region.

 

The minister outlined the commitment of Saudi Arabia and its regional partners to practical and time-bound steps to resolve the conflict.

 

He emphasised the necessity of establishing an independent Palestinian state and ending the occupation.

 

The minister reiterated his country’s condemnation of actions undermining Palestinian and Lebanese security.

 

NAN reports that as a follow-up to the developments, Saudi Arabia announced its intention to convene a joint Arab-Islamic summit in Riyadh on Nov. 11.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Foreign

Macron departs Morocco with landmark €1.5bn investment deals

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By Usman Aliyu

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday departed Morocco after signing several bilateral deals worth over 1.5 billion Euros investments.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Macron arrived in Morocco’s capital city, Rabat on Monday for a 3-day visit, following an invitation by the King of the African Arab country, Muhammed VI.

 

The French president, during the state visit, reiterated the support of Paris for Morocco sovereignty on Western Sahara, alongside other speeches made to deepen the relations between the two countries.

 

Under the supervision of the president, France signed 22 new agreements with her erstwhile colony, which cut across critical sectors such as transportation, education, energy, culture, water, security, agriculture and climate action.

 

One of the agreements was to provide support for the OCP Group’s decarbonisation strategy in Morocco with investments worth 300 million Euros through the development of agricultural and food value chains in Africa.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that another deal is in the creation of a Morocco-France investment accelerator worth approximately 3 billion Moroccan dirhams, equivalent to 232 million Euros.

 

The deal also provided an equal partnership to stimulate investment throughout Morocco including the disputed southern provinces.

 

It also contained the creation of a 50/50 joint venture dedicated to sustainable infrastructure, with a capital of 300 million Euros.

 

The signings include an agreement between the CMA CGM Group, the world’s third-largest shipping company, and the Morocco’s TANGER MED, aimed at developing a container terminal in Nador West Med as part of the concession obtained by MARSA MAROC.

 

The deal provided for a commitment of significant volumes of 1.2 million containers to launch the Nador West Med platform and an investment of approximately 258 million Euros.

 

Also signed was an MoU between Moroccan Government and the SAFRAN company which is to build a maintenance and repairing site for aircraft engines.

 

Under this agreement, the company planned to carry out an investment project consisting of the construction and equipping of the maintenance and repair workshop of LEAP aircraft engines, with an investment worth nearly 130 million Euros.

 

Another declaration was between the French Development Agency (AFD) and Morocco’s National Ports Agency.

 

Through the declaration, the parties agree to devise a new support programme for the ports agency around four main points with the AFD providing 100 million Euros loan.

 

There was also an agreement on the National Water Strategy, structured around budgetary support for Morocco, aimed at strengthening the integrated management of water resources.

 

Under this understanding, the AFD would take the necessary steps to mobilise 100 million Euros for this programme.

 

Other agreements include the supply of high-speed train sets and their supporting elements as well as a declaration of intent on financial cooperation in the railway sector among several others.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Foreign

Chinese Envoy pledges to boost China-Nigeria education exchange

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By Sarafina Christopher

China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, announced on Tuesday in Abuja that the Chinese government is committed to strengthening educational exchange programmes with Nigeria.

Dunhai made this statement during the commissioning of the Chinese Corner and the Award Ceremony for the 2024 Chinese Ambassador Drawing Competition at Government Secondary School, Wuse Zone 3, Abuja.

The ambassador emphasised that education is crucial for fostering economic development and social progress.

“Education is a fundamental driver of national development. By enhancing educational opportunities in Nigeria, we can work together to build a brighter future for both our nations.

“We believe that education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about building lasting friendships and partnerships,” he said.

Dunhai noted that China has established and equipped about 13 Chinese Corners in Nigeria with computers, Chinese books, and films to promote education and cultural diversity.

He also outlined several ongoing initiatives aimed at improving educational infrastructure and access in Nigeria.

“These initiatives include scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students to study in China, providing educational materials, and supporting the construction of schools in underserved areas,” he explained.

Dunhai also mentioned the potential for collaborative programs between Chinese and Nigerian institutions to facilitate knowledge exchange and technological advancements.

Dr Muhammed Ladan, Director/Secretary of the FCT Secondary Education Board, expressed gratitude for China’s unwavering support in improving the quality of education in Nigeria through valuable partnerships.

“The partnership with China in education is vital for our efforts to enhance the quality of education in Nigeria.

“The Corners serve as resource centers for Chinese education and as hubs for cultural exchange between Nigeria and China.

“We welcome these initiatives and look forward to working closely with the Chinese government,” Ladan stated.

Mrs Josephine Ogwu, the school principal, thanked the Embassy and Mr Martin Chen, Chairman of China Harbour Engineering Company Nigeria Limited, for establishing the Cultural Centre.

She noted that the center signifies China’s strong commitment to educational and cultural exchange.

Ogwu noted that the corner is important for facilitating educational and cultural interactions between Nigeria and China, broadening students’ global perspectives, and fostering tolerance to create global citizens.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that awards were presented to students from 12 Chinese corner schools for the drawing competition. (NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Mark Longyen

Foreign

Moroccan Princess launches anti-bullying campaigns

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By Usman Aliyu

Moroccan Princess Lalla Meryem and French First Lady Brigitte Macron on Tuesday in Rabat launched a campaign against school bullying and cyberbullying at the Abi Dar Al Ghifari Secondary School.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the launch was part of the activities lined up for the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Morocco.

 

The campaign is an initiative of the National Observatory for Children’s Rights (ONDE) being presided over by the princess under the banner “Let’s Act Together,”

 

The initiative is part of Morocco’s efforts to protect children from school bullying, a scourge that is of global concern.

 

NAN reports that school bullying and cyberbullying are widespread issues affecting children and adolescents globally.

 

School bullying peaks between ages 10-13, with 27.5 per cent of students affected, while cyberbullying increases with age, affecting 15.6 per cent of 14-17-year-olds.

 

The global rate studies says one in three students worldwide experience bullying and cyberbullying affects one in five teenagers.

 

The Moroccan campaign comprises several parallel actions, including the distribution of a school bullying awareness capsule to 3,770 middle and high schools, and the design and development of the “iTyhad” app to combat and prevent bullying in schools.

 

The campaign also provided for launching of a three-year training programme to combat bullying and cyberbullying, in collaboration with the country’s Ministry of National Education, Preschool and Sports.

 

At the occasion, four engineering students, a child and a child psychiatrist made a presentation from the “iTyhad” app.

 

The app was developed during a Hackathon initiated by the Moroccan princess in March and had brought together 15 universities across the country.

 

The two personalities also watched an awareness-raising video on bullying in schools, which was simultaneously broadcast in 3,300 multimedia rooms of the French Ministry of Education.

 

They, similarly, attended a workshop with 14 middle-school students, led by a child psychiatrist and a psychologist from the ONDE programme.

 

Meryem and Macron also viewed a video on the achievements of the Children’s Parliament, created in 1999 by King Mohammed VI.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Foreign

Macron unveils plans for triangular partnership in Africa

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By Usman Aliyu

French President Emmanuel Macron has unveiled plans for a triangular partnership between France, Morocco and Africa to foster cooperation in key sectors for growth, stability and development.

 

Macron announced this on Tuesday in Rabat while addressing a joint session of the two Houses of the Moroccan parliament.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the address formed part of the activities of the French president’s 3-day visit to the Northern African country.

 

He said the France, Morocco and Africa partnership would be premise in the areas of education, agriculture, ecological projects, digital technology and energy.

 

Macron stressed the importance of the Moroccan-French partnership in Africa, underlining the vision of the Moroccan King, Mohammed VI for the continent.

 

“Morocco, by virtue of its geography, its history, its culture and the vision of its Sovereigns, has long affirmed its vocation as a platform, a channel, a singular path,” Macron said.

 

This, he said, underlined that the Kingdom’s stability, openness and development “are unrivaled assets which we recognise at their true value and which can inspire many joint initiatives.”

 

Speaking on the Moroccan-Western Sahara issue, Macron reiterated the support of Paris for Morocco sovereignty over the contentious region.

 

“For France, the present and future of this territory lie within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty. The Autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is the framework within which this issue must be resolved.

 

“The 2007 autonomy plan constitutes the only basis for achieving a just, lasting and negotiated political solution in line with the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council,” he said.

 

He said that the Paris position was rooted in history, respectful of realities and promising for the future, and the one that France would implement to support Morocco at international forums.

 

Turning to the situation in the Middle East, Macron paid tribute to the action of King Mohammed VI for providing urgent humanitarian aid to the Palestinian and Lebanese populations.

 

“I salute his mobilisation and that of all Morocco in favour of de-escalation, resumption of dialogue and the relaunch of a credible political process.

 

“In the current cacophony, in which extremes on all sides are indulging, Morocco has a strong and singular voice,” he said

 

Macron said Morocco and France were now destined to lay the foundations for a reinforced exceptional partnership, and to offer the generations of the next 25 years a new vision.

 

“At a time when His Majesty King Mohammed VI and I decided to write a new book together, I want to share with you that I am certain that these ties will continue to grow ever stronger,” he said.

 

He lauded the values of diversity, dialogue and tolerance, adding that it remains at the heart of the Morocco’s people, its institutions and Constitution.

 

“The tolerant Islam promoted by His Majesty the King, Commander of the Faithful, challenges all forms of extremism,” he said.

 

Macron added that Morocco’s wealth “is even more precious and worthy of respect at a time when our world is torn apart by intolerance and war.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Culture & Tourism , Foreign

Africa China News, NAN forge partnership to foster cultural exchange

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

Zheng Xiaopeng, CEO and Publisher of Africa China News (ACN), has expressed interest in collaborating with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) to promote cultural exchange between Nigeria and China.

Xiaopeng said this when he paid a courtesy visit to NAN’s Managing Director, Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, in Abuja.

He highlighted ACN’s mission to provide accurate news, insightful analysis, and cultural exchange programmes fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between the two nations.

“Our mission at ACN is to provide accurate and timely news, insightful analysis, and cultural exchange programmes that foster mutual understanding and cooperation between Nigeria and China.

“We seek NAN’s partnership as a respected media leader in Nigeria; your guidance and expertise will be invaluable in helping us achieve our goals,” Xiaopeng said.

Xiaopeng, who has been in Nigeria for over 10 years and has visited about 20 states, aimed to promote cultural exchange and bilateral relations.

“China is my first home, and Nigeria is my second home. I enjoy Nigerian culture and am a chief from Yoruba and Igbo land,” he added.

In response, Ali expressed NAN’s willingness to partner with ACN, citing the agency’s commitment to fostering bilateral relations with strategic countries like China.

Ali, who was represented by Mr Ephraims Sheyin, Editor-in-Chief of NAN, said that the management of NAN was anxious to support initiatives that promoted Nigeria’s cultural heritage and togetherness.

“NAN is Africa’s largest news content provider with over 3,000 clients.

“NAN provides various services, including general news, SMS news, economic news, sports news, foreign news, and press wire services.

“We have offices in all 36 states in Nigeria, with district offices and correspondents,” he said.

Ali promised that NAN’s marketing department would work closely with ACN to subscribe to its services and enrich their content.

“Once you get our services and bulletins, they will sincerely enrich everything you want to publicise,” he said.

NAN reports that ACN’s core mandate includes promoting cultural engagement, cultural arts, cultural exchange programmes, and heritage preservation between China and African countries.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Foreign

Morocco, France sign historic partnership deal

223 total views today

 

By Usman Aliyu

The Kingdom of Morocco and the French Republic on Monday signed a landmark “Reinforced Exceptional Partnership” declaration to significantly bolster bilateral relations.

 

The two countries signed the agreement during a 3-day official visit to Morocco by the French President Emmanuel Macron.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that while Macron signed for France, Morocco’s King Mohammed VI signed on behalf of his country.

 

The partnership, according to the Moroccan government, will strengthen long-standing historical, cultural and economic ties between the two nations.

 

The government said the bilateral deal reaffirmed the mutual cooperation and strategic autonomy.

 

Key provisions include fostering exceptional relations, establishing a comprehensive strategic framework and adhering to principles of state-to-state relations, sovereign equality and non-interference.

 

“The profound relations between the two countries are rooted in history and exceptionally rich human and cultural ties which have underpinned the friendship and cooperation for several decades.

 

“The leaders also reaffirmed that their countries’ joint action, both bilaterally and internationally, would continue to rest on the principles of state-to-state relation, sovereign equality, non-interference in internal affairs and foreign policy decisions, among others.

 

“Both nations emphasised their commitment to directing the ‘reinforced exceptional partnership’ toward three major goals that include consolidating political and strategic convergence.

 

“Others included deepening and modernising partnerships to promote economic development, social cohesion and strategic autonomy.

 

“Another goal is the strengthening of privileged cooperation in human ties, human capital and culture rooted in a Francophonie of values and openness,” the government said.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN), reports that the two heads of state welcomed the ambitious cooperation that they had established and strengthened in migration, and called for the building of a comprehensive agenda in that regard.

 

They also agreed to directly oversee the “reinforced exceptional partnership” between them. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ephraims Sheyin

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