NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Zimbabwe advances knowledge-driven industrialisation with strategic China partnership
Foreign

Zimbabwe advances knowledge-driven industrialisation with strategic China partnership

129 total views today

 

Zimbabwe has called on Chinese investors and partners aligned with China’s global development vision to help accelerate its transition to a knowledge-based, resource-driven industrial economy.

Prof. Amon Murwira, the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, outlined the policy shift,  according to a report by The Herald, a partner of TV BRICS.

“Zimbabwe is open for business. Under this transformative vision, we are ready to engage and foster robust socio-economic partnerships with the People’s Republic of China,” Murwira said.

The Zimbabwean foreign minister reaffirmed the strong diplomatic and economic ties between Zimbabwe and China, which have been elevated to “five-star ironclad” status, signifying a deepened strategic alliance and shared development objectives.

This elevation follows the consensus reached between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and President Xi Jinping during their meeting in September 2024.

To facilitate deeper economic cooperation, Murwira highlighted several bilateral frameworks already in place.

These include a Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement and Memoranda of Understanding on economic development cooperation, trade facilitation, and investment coordination.

These instruments aim to improve regulatory clarity, streamline procedures, and enhance investor confidence.

Officials also detailed plans to establish a vertically integrated industrial cluster that includes coal mining, power generation, and steel production.

The goal is to create the largest and most advanced metallurgical hub in Africa. (TV BRICS/NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

China inaugurates international day for dialogue among civilisations
Foreign

China inaugurates international day for dialogue among civilisations

151 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has inaugurated the International Day of Dialogue Among Civilisations to foster global understanding and cooperation through mutual learning among developing countries.

Mr Zhang Yi, Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, disclosed this in Abuja while highlighting the role of communication and mutual respect in building a harmonious world.

According to him, a resolution proposed by China was adopted at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, designating June 10 as the International Day for Dialogue Among Civilisations.

This resolution emphasises that all achievements of civilisations are part of humanity’s shared heritage, and advocating respect for diverse civilisations.

It also highlights the significance of dialogue in fostering peace, development, well-being, and collective progress.

Zhang added that establishing this day reflects China’s commitment to the Global Civilisation Initiative introduced by President Xi Jinping.

He said that it also marks a significant contribution to global dialogue, peace, and development.

“As we face escalating global challenges and deficits in peace, development, security, and governance, this new International Day aligns with current international trends and addresses contemporary needs.

“This year also commemorates the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the United Nations.

“During this significant moment in history, the necessity for mutual dialogue among civilisations to enhance understanding and trust, promote people-to-people connections,

“It also encourages unity and cooperation, and achieving common development is increasingly crucial,” he said.

He said that the theme for this year’s event, “Dialogue & Zhi yin: Beyond Borders, Connecting Hearts: Dialogue with the World through Music,” emphasises music’s power as a universal language.

“In traditional Chinese culture, “Zhī yǐn” symbolises deep mutual understanding and true friendship, which can only be attained through sincere dialogue,” he said.

Zhang reiterated China’s willingness to partner with Nigeria to seize this opportunity for enhancing cooperation across culture, tourism, education, and the creative economy.

He emphasised the need for collaboration to build a high-level China-Nigeria community with a shared future.

Dr Mukhtar Yawale, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, noted that this inaugural event was a beacon of hope.

Yawale said that it reminded peoples that culture serves as the compass guiding a world yearning for connection.

“This dialogue transcends cultural boundaries, acting as the engine of our creative economy.

“The achievements we’ve made together such as the Abuja Light Rail project, the Lekki Free Trade Zone, and the increasing popularity of Nollywood films in China illustrate that these ventures are not just transactions but transformations.”

Yawale also said that Nigerian digital artists are collaborating with Shenzhen tech hubs, while fashion designers blend traditional Ankara styles with Shanghai’s innovative trends.

“This is the future we envision; a creative economy where dialogue transforms into tangible opportunities. When civilisations converse, they do not merely exchange ideas; they co-create their destinies,” he said.

He also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening this covenant between civilisations.

“We are set to launch the ‘Nigeria-China Creative Corridor’, a platform for joint ventures in film, music, AI-driven art, and heritage preservation.

“Through scholarships, artist residencies, and co-production agreements, we aim to ensure that dialogue breeds enterprise, and enterprise elevates nations,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event attracted diplomats from Cuba, Argentina, Lebanon, Iraq and cultural ambassadors, and local leaders.

The highlight of the event were music and dance performances by Nigerian and Chinese artists.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Iran, China launch 2nd phase of joint archaeological studies
Foreign

Iran, China launch 2nd phase of joint archaeological studies

120 total views today

 

The second phase of the joint Iranian-Chinese archaeological investigations has officially begun at the historic village of Masouleh in northern Iran, as reported by Tehran Times, a partner of TV BRICS.

The international research effort aims to deepen understanding of ancient sponge iron smelting and to support Masouleh’s nomination for UNESCO World Heritage status.

The ongoing research also seeks to complete critical documentation for the registration of Masouleh’s cultural landscape on the World Heritage List.

The core focus of this phase is to examine the evolution and spread of sponge iron smelting technologies across historical periods and their integration into the built environment of Masouleh.

The aim is to reconstruct the historical interconnection between industrial activity and the residential fabric of Masouleh.

The research team is exploring how metallurgical zones functioned within and alongside one of Iran’s most distinctive human settlements.

The second phase of research combines targeted excavations at known metallurgical sites with rigorous cross-referencing of archaeological findings against Islamic-era travelogues, ancient geographical manuscripts, and local historical archives.

Cutting-edge scientific methods such as radiocarbon (C-14) and luminescence dating will be used to create a reliable chronological framework for Masouleh’s industrial and domestic development.

According to experts, the outcomes of this collaborative research will be instrumental in advancing Masouleh’s UNESCO nomination dossier, positioning it as a rare example of an integrated industrial-residential cultural landscape. (TV BRICS/NAN) (www.nannews.ng

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

China, Africa to collaborate against stereotypes in relations
Foreign

China, Africa to collaborate against stereotypes in relations

184 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

CHINADAILY has reaffirmed commitment to promote a more positive and accurate portrayal of Africa-China relations to combat negative stereotypes that have suffused international discourse.

The media organisation stated this during a courtesy visit to by delegates incorporating Think tank and Media agencies representatives from various African countries and International Department Central Committee of Communist Party of China (IDCPC) in Beijing.

Mr Sun Shangwu, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of China Daily, emphasised the importance of addressing misconceptions surrounding the connections between Africa and China.

Highlighting the need for a balanced narrative that showcases the mutual respect and collaboration between the two nations, Sun said, “It is essential to highlight shared achievements and prospects to dispel baseless stereotypes that hinder our partnership.”

He also noted that China Daily has regional offices in Africa and would collaborate with African news agencies to produce content such as articles, interviews, and multimedia projects that highlight the positive impacts of cooperation between China and African nations.

These projects would cover various areas like joint technological ventures, infrastructure development, trade partnerships, and cultural exchanges to demonstrate the depth of engagement between the two regions.

“We believe that this approach will amplify African voices and perspectives in discussions about the relationship and include authentic narratives from Africa to avoid misrepresentation,” he said.

Ms Sarafina Christopher, a delegate and media representative from the News Agency of Nigeria, welcomed China Daily’s commitment to promoting positive narratives amidst increased global scrutiny of Africa-China relations.

She also acknowledged that critiques often paint the relationship as exploitative, disregarding the substantial contributions made by both parties to each other’s advancement.

“We believe that by showcasing uplifting stories, China Daily will challenge these misrepresentations and offer a comprehensive perspective on the partnership.

“An accurate portrayal can enhance understanding and bolster ties between the people of both regions,” she said.

Christopher also reiterated African Media’s dedication to advocating the positive aspects of Africa-China collaboration to shape new narratives centered on mutual growth and benefits.

“This publication aspires to inspire narratives that underline partnership and mutual benefits by highlighting the positive aspects of Africa-China collaboration.

“We believe that this joint initiative between China Daily and African media is not just responsible journalism but also highlights the importance of fostering an effective approach to international relations,” she said.

NAN reports that Chen Zhiming, Song Ping, Yang Fang, Li Changxiang, and Shao Xinying of CHINADAILY also gave significant contribution to the advancement of Africa-China relations through their respective roles and efforts.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Kabir, other surveyors inaugurate World Geospatial Information Home in China
Foreign

Kabir, other surveyors inaugurate World Geospatial Information Home in China

209 total views today

Ambassador Mohammed Kabir, former Registrar of the Surveyors Council of Nigeria, on Friday joined his colleagues to cut the tape to inaugurate the World Geospatial Information Home (WGIH), in Deqing, China.

The WGIH was inaugurated under the auspices of the United Nations Global Geospatial Knowledge and Innovation Centre (UNGGKIC), also in Deqing, China.

A statement from the WGIH indicated that the Home was built to promote global cooperation and partnership in the geospatial industry.

It also promotes collaboration in universal research and innovation and engages in the dissemination of geospatial information for the benefit of the global community.

Together with the inauguration of the Home, the International Volunteer Service Federation for Global Geospatial Information Management (GGIM), was also launched.

It is expected to augment the attainment of the objectives of establishing the WGIH.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the event was jointly organised by Geospatial Industry Development Centre of Huzhou Moganshan High-Tech zone, and Deqing Association for Geospatial Information Professionals.

More than 60 participants from the field of surveying, mapping and geospatial information from various countries attended the activity.

Among the countries are Nigeria, China, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Russia and UK.

Others are Germany, Turkey, Pakistan, Iran and Bolivia.

Keynote speeches were delivered by Prof. Guefei Jing, Deputy Director, Regional Centre of Space Science and Technology Education in Asia and Pacific.

Malam Kabir, who is also the Chairperson of the International Federation of Surveyors-Africa Regional Network, and Ambassador of African Union Agenda 2063, also delivered a keynote address.

Dr Nicholas Hamm, Associate Professor of Geospatial Data Science at the University of Nottingham, Ningbo, China, also delivered a keynote address.

The speeches focused on cross-regional cooperation in spatio-temporal biodata as well as AU agenda 2063.

Other areas included China-Africa geospatial information cooperation as well as spatial data science education.

The statement enjoined professionals in the surveying sector to join the International Volunteer Service so as to contribute their quota to global peace and prosperity through the GGIM. (NAN)

Edited by Polycarp Auta

China to establish first African history, culture museum
Foreign

China to establish first African history, culture museum

243 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

The China-Africa Institute at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences has announced plans to establish the first museum dedicated to African history and culture in China, signaling a significant step in fostering cultural exchange between the two regions.

 

Mr Ye Hailin, Director of the China-Africa Institute, revealed these plans during an ongoing Workshop themed ‘China-Africa Cooperation in the New Era: Responsibilities of Think Tanks and Media’, on Saturday in Beijing.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop was organised by the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China(IDCPC).

 

According to him, the proposed museum aims to celebrate the rich tapestry of African heritage, showcasing artifacts, artworks, and historical narratives that highlight the continent’s diverse cultures and traditions.

 

“We believe that the museum will serve not only as an educational resource but also as a platform for fostering dialogue and collaboration between Chinese and African scholars, artists, and communities.

 

“The museum is expected to attract both local and international visitors, providing a unique perspective on African history that is often overlooked in traditional narratives,” he said.

 

Ye also highlighted that China was in the process of establishing five China-Africa research centres, announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping as part of the Beijing-Southeast Asia 2024 partnership actions.

 

“One of these centres will be based in South Africa, where we have conducted extensive consultations with the executive academy there,” he added, stating that an agreement for cooperation had already been signed.

 

“The establishment of the first China-Africa research centre is expected to be officially inaugurated before the upcoming G20 Summit in South Africa later this year.

 

“We are currently in the legal negotiation phase, and we are optimistic about launching this center as a hub for collaborative research and exchange,” Ye said.

 

According to him, the initiative also focuses on enhancing media relations, with active exchange programmes planned for African media and journalists, aimed at promoting bilateral understanding and cooperation.

 

He emphasised that these efforts reflected China’s commitment to deepening its partnership with African nations through cultural diplomacy and academic collaboration.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Botswana speaker lauds China for supporting Africa’s dev’t
Foreign

Botswana speaker lauds China for supporting Africa’s dev’t

234 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

Mr Dithapelo Keorapetse, Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Botswana has lauded  China for its commitment to Africa’s development.

 

Keorapetse said this on Friday at the opening of the 4th Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning Among Civilizations in Dunhuang, China.

 

The event is being hosted by the Chinese Association for International Understanding and the People’s government of Gansu Province in China.

 

The speaker, representing delegates from Africa highlighted China’s role as a key partner in Africa’s socio-economic transformation.

 

He cited infrastructural projects, technology transfer, and educational exchanges as pillars of cooperation between China and Africa.

 

“China’s support has been instrumental in advancing Africa’s development agenda.

 

“From railways to digital innovation, our partnership exemplifies mutual respect and shared progress under the principles of the Global Civilisation Initiative,” he said.

 

Keorapetse praised President Xi Jinping’s three global initiatives: the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilisation Initiative.

 

According to the Botswana speaker, the initiatives remain crucial even as they serve as resources for generating new opportunities for the Global South.

 

He highlighted China’s role in Botswana’s developmental efforts since it’s  independence in 1966.

 

Keorapetse also highlighted China’s instrumental role in enhancing the his country’s infrastructural development and other benefits through the nations’ bilateral cooperation.

 

“When Botswana gained independence, we had fewer than 10 kilometers of tarred roads. China aided in rehabilitating our railway system, transforming 522 kilometers of track with a $99 million interest-free loan.

 

“Beyond infrastructure advancements, there is a flourishing cultural and educational exchanges between the two nations, including the establishment of the Confucius Institute at the University of Botswana in collaboration with Shanghai Normal University.

 

“These institutes play a pivotal role in promoting the Chinese language and facilitating cross-cultural exchanges,” he said.

 

Keorapetse, however, acknowledged the challenges facing multilateralism, including armed conflicts, global health crises, climate change, and the rise of nationalism, which have hindered international cooperation.

 

“It is for this reason that we look to China to partnering with us in the Global South to mitigate the adverse effects of these global challenges.

 

“We also reiterate our commitment to continuous collaboration with China,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Shuaib Sadiq/Bashir Rabe Mani

China pledges deeper ties with Africa
Foreign

China pledges deeper ties with Africa

223 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

The Chinese Counselor at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Shen Sha, has reaffirmed China’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the longstanding ties between Africa and China.

 

Shen gave the assurance at the ongoing African Think Tank and Media Workshop organised by the International Department of the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee in Beijing.

 

According to him, the historical connection between China and Africa spans more than eight decades.

 

”China’s engagement with Africa dates back to the eight century when Chinese explorers embarked on historic voyages to the continent, laying the groundwork for enduring cultural and trade relationships.”

 

Shen noted that China values unity and collaboration with African nations as a cornerstone of its foreign policy.

 

He added that the country remained steadfast in its support for Africa’s development aspirations.

 

”We embrace the principles of a strong and harmonious East Africa and are dedicated to aligning Chinese interests with those of the African people.

 

”China’s growth and the international stature may evolve, but our commitment to fostering partnerships with Africa remains resolute,” he said.

 

The counselor also said that China stands ready to champion African countries’ rights on the global stage, advocating for fair and inclusive international policies that safeguard the interests of developing nations.

 

He further pledged China continued backing for Africa’s self-reliant initiatives, supporting peace-building efforts, and facilitating inclusive governance practices tailored to African contexts.

 

”We envision a future where China and Africa advance hand in hand, sharing developmental opportunities and mutual prosperity.

 

”China’s enduring support for Africa’s advancement is unwavering, and we stand ready to provide assistance within our means,” he said.

 

Shen also highlighted the exponential growth in trade and investment between China and Africa, underscoring China’s role as Africa’s largest trading partner for the 16th consecutive year.

 

”Notably, Chinese investments have spurred economic growth and jobs creation across Africa, underlining President Xi Jinping’s personal commitment to nurturing China-Africa relations.

 

”China’s promise of continued engagement extends to expanding investment cooperation, enhancing agricultural and manufacturing partnerships, and empowering African nations to harness their resources for sustainable development,” he said.

 

Ms Lindiwe Zulu, Head of the African delegation and member of South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC), expressed appreciation to China for its steadfast support of Africa’s progress.

 

Zulu emphasised the importance of equitable partnerships and African unity as the keys to prosperity.

 

She expressed optimism that China would uphold Africa as an equal and esteemed partner, paving the way for shared success and enduring friendship.

 

NAN reports that the delegation comprises 20 Think tank and Media agencies representatives from various African countries including Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Cecilia Odey/Deborah Coker

China denies tariff talks with U.S.
Foreign

China denies tariff talks with U.S.

250 total views today

China on Thursday denied any suggestion on negotiations with the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump over tariffs.

China’s comments come after Trump had earlier on Tuesday said that things were going on fine with China and that the final tariff rate on Chinese exports would come down substantially from the current 145 per cent.

Guo Jiakun, a spokesman for China’s Foreign Ministry, said during a briefing that, “for all I know, China and the U.S. are not having any consultation or negotiation on tariffs, still less reaching a deal.

“China’s position is consistent and we are open to consultations and dialogues, but any form of consultations and negotiations must be conducted on the basis of mutual respect and in an equal manner,” Commerce Ministry spokesman He Yadong said.

“Any claims about the progress of China-U.S. trade negotiations are groundless as trying to catch the wind and have no factual basis,” the spokesman said.

Trump had told reporters earlier in the week that “everything’s active” when asked if he was engaging with China, although his treasury secretary had said there were no formal negotiations.

Trump had put 145 per cent tariffs on imports from China, while China hit back with 125 per cent tariffs on U.S. products.

While Trump had given other countries a 90-day pause on the tariffs, as their leaders pledged to negotiate with the U.S., China remained the exception.

Instead, Beijing raised its own tariffs and deployed other economic measures in response while vowing to fight to the end.

For example, China restricted exports of rare earth minerals and raised multiple cases against the U.S. at the World Trade Organisation.

China also made it clear that talks should involve the cancellation of all tariffs it currently faces.

“The unilateral tariff increase measures were initiated by the United States.

“If the United States really wants to solve the problem, it should face up to the rational voices of the international community and all parties at home.

“It should completely cancel all unilateral tariff measures against China, and find ways to resolve differences through equal dialogue,” said the Commerce Ministry spokesman.

In spite of the economic measures leveled against China, Trump had earlier said that it would be “very nice” and not play hardball with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

“We are going to live together very happily and ideally work together,” Trump said. (AP/NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Halima Sheji

Stable world order may emerge if…— Chinese economist
Foreign

Stable world order may emerge if…— Chinese economist

249 total views today

By Busayo Onijala

A new, more stable world structure may emerge if China’s per capita GDP reaches half of the United States’, says Prof. Yifu Lin, Honorary Dean, National School of Development, Peking University.

Lin, who is also a former World Bank Chief Economist and Senior Vice President, Development Economics, said this during a lecture organised by China Public Diplomacy Association (CPDA) in Beijing.

Speaking on the theme, “China’s Medium and Long Term Development and the Significance of its Stable Growth to the World”, he noted that the world was currently grappling with great change, unseen in a century.

He said that with a GDP of 134.9 trillion Yuan (18.80 trillion dollars) in 2024, maintaining growth above five per cent was achievable for China, highlighting its 30 per cent annual contribution to global economic growth.

According to him, China’s sustained development is not only vital to the well-being of its 1.4 billion citizens but also to global economic stability and the reshaping of international governance systems.

”Chinese style modernisation holds significance not only for its own development but also as a crucial pillar for global stability.

”At present, only 16 per cent of the global population lives in high-income countries and once China achieves modernisation, this figure will double, bringing the world into a new stage of equilibrium.”

Lin, while projecting china’s economic future, decried the West’s “China collapse theory”.

He noted that in the last 40 years, China had been the only major economy that had not experienced a systemic economic or financial crisis.

He explained that this feat was due to China’s continued growth in technological innovation, industrial upgrading, and the formation of new productive capacity in emerging industries.

The economist further highlighted three major advantages for China’s growth including abundant pool of technological talent, vast domestic market, and the most complete industrial supply chain in the world.

Speaking on the future of China-U.S. trade, he said there were little risks of complete decoupling, adding that a possibility however could not be entirely ruled out.

”For instance, even after the tariff hikes, products like IPhones, some chips, and photovoltaic materials are no longer subject to tariffs because U.S. companies couldn’t bear the cost.

”If trade stops, the losses for the U.S. would exceed those for China, especially since the U.S. is a high-income country, with its advantageous industries all in high-tech sectors.

”These high-tech enterprises rely on the Chinese market, without which they cannot maintain profitability to support technological leadership. Therefore, economic decoupling would have a greater negative impact on the U.S,” Lin said.

He noted that trade wars were bad especially for smaller countries and therefore urged the other 85 per cent of the world’s economies to unite to address the situation rather than negotiate separately.

He added that though the U.S. economy was large, it only accounts for 15 per cent of the global economy.

Lin warned that with a persistence trade war, international analysts predict an occurrence of a situation like the Great Depression of the 1930s which followed the 1929 stock market crash when the U.S. raised high tariffs to protect domestic jobs.

”This may seem beneficial to the U.S. in the short term, but it’s ultimately harmful in the long run and we hope the world can learn from past experiences.

”We should re-establish rules-based international system. Trade issues should return to the WTO framework, where disputes can be resolved,” he added. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

X
Welcome to NAN
Need help? Choose an option below and let me be your assistant.
Email SubscriptionSite SearchSend Us Email