News Agency of Nigeria
Kabir, other surveyors inaugurate World Geospatial Information Home in China
Foreign

Kabir, other surveyors inaugurate World Geospatial Information Home in China

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

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

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

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.

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

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

Africa Day to hold in China
General News

Africa Day to hold in China

By Aderonke Ojediran

The Inaugural Africa Day celebration, aimed to project a vibrant and authentic image of Africa to a global audience, is billed to hold in China in May.

 

The Center for China-Africa Discourse Studies made this known on Wednesday in Lagos.

 

The Communications Director of the centre, Queen Modestus, said in a statement that Africa Day in China was being spearheaded by Africans residing in China.

 

“In what is being described as the biggest celebration of Black culture in Asia, preparations are underway for the first-ever Africa Day celebration in China, scheduled to take place on May 23 at the Marriott Hotel in Beijing,” Modestus said.

 

The director said that the celebration had the support of major African corporations.

 

“The event will be hosted by Dr Joseph Olivier Mendo’o, Head of the African Youth Delegation in China and one of the 100 most influential people of African descent (2023).

 

“We don’t want to let the cat out of the bag, but a prominent Nigerian bank and the national airline of an East African country are among the lead sponsors.

 

“Additionally, a major South African brand is expected to join, alongside several non-profit foundations and intellectual bodies advocating good governance and pan-African unity.

 

“This is not just a celebration; it is a cultural statement. Too often, Africa is misconstrued as a single country due to racial homogenisation,” she said.

 

Modestus said that the event was expected to dismantle such misconception and present the continent in its full richness and diversity.

 

She described the initiative as a celebration of Africa by Africans for Africans, adding that it would blend corporate support, academic engagement and community involvement.

 

“Also, foundations with strong pan-African values are expected to play an integral role.”

 

She said that the celebration was being intended to become  annual.

 

Amb. Martin Mpana of Cameroon, who is the  Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps in China, is expected to give an address at the occasion, according to Modestus.

 

She added that the event would  feature a high-level panel discussion and a dedicated forum for African community leaders. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Hollywood jitters over U.S.-China tariff war
Foreign

Hollywood jitters over U.S.-China tariff war

 

By Kamal Tayo Oropo

The U.S.-China tariff war may now be casting a shadow over Hollywood, according to He Beiping, a Chinese journalist based in Nigeria.

Beiping’s opinion is contained in a piece made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday.

Beiping expressed concerns about China’s declining interest in American film imports.

He noted that during Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s recent visit to China, both countries signed a film cooperation agreement.

According to him, the deal aims to deepen cultural and industry ties through festivals, screenings, co-productions and professional exchanges.

“This signals China’s pivot towards broader cinematic partnerships beyond traditional U.S. collaborations.

“China, as the world’s second-largest film market, remains a crucial audience for global content creators.

“Yet, rising U.S. tariffs have triggered strategic pushback from Beijing,” he explained.

He stated that China’s National Film Administration has pledged to “moderately reduce the number of American films imported”.

“This announcement has unsettled Hollywood, with shares in studios like Disney and Warner Bros Discovery falling sharply.

“The tariff moves casts uncertainty over future U.S.-China film projects and market access.

“Still, China continues to reward high-quality international content at the box office,” he said.

Beiping emphasised that strong demand remains, provided partnerships are fair and mutually beneficial.

He pointed out an imbalance: U.S. service exports to China have surged over sevenfold since 2001.

According to him, Washington’s tariff policies risk harming its own success in key service sectors like film and technology.

NAN recalls that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has also warned of possible counter-measures.

These include potential restrictions on U.S. tech firms, suggesting wider economic consequences.

Beiping noted that America’s surplus with Europe relies heavily on technology services.

He argued that such threats reflect a growing instability driven by short-term trade decisions.

“Meanwhile, China is embracing openness,” he said, referencing the recent deal with Spain.

That agreement reflects a multilateral approach to creative exchange and global trade.

“This model, based on mutual gain, could raise standards and enrich global audiences,” he said.

Beiping added that the era of American unilateral dominance is ending, replaced by a multipolar world of shared opportunity. (NAN) 

Edited by Polycarp Auta

NAN MD says China’s “Two Sessions” key to governance, modernisation
Foreign

NAN MD says China’s “Two Sessions” key to governance, modernisation

By Ismail Abdulaziz
China’s cooperation with African nations, particularly in industrialisation, capacity building and technology transfer, is playing a crucial role in addressing the continent’s development challenges.

The Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali Muhammad Ali, said this in an interview with the Chinese news agency, Xinhua.

Ali was speaking against the background of the China two sessions event that began in Beijing on Monday.

He said that China’s “two sessions” had become a crucial window through which the world observes the country’s governance model and gains insights into its modernisation.

NAN reports that the two sessions is an annual political gathering with thousands of political and community delegates converging on Beijing.

Delegates are drawn from across mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau to ratify legislation, personnel changes and the budget over about two weeks of highly choreographed meetings.

The event is called the “two sessions” because both the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) hold their annual meetings separately, but at the same time.

The meetings include “work report” speeches by the premier, and sometimes – but not always – speeches by the party leader.

Official economic targets are set, military budgets announced, and changes in the ranks of party leadership bodies are confirmed.

“The “two sessions” showcase the transparency and efficiency of China’s governance, as well as its responsible administrative system.

“China’s governance experience is even more valuable in the current context of profound global changes,” Ali said.

Having visited China multiple times, Ali expressed delight at the country’s rapid development and transformation.

According to him, China stands out in renewable energy, infrastructure and agriculture among other fields.

Describing China’s engagement with other developing countries as “unique,” he emphasised its focus on delivering tangible benefits through infrastructure development, vocational training and technology-driven investment.

“China’s cooperation with African nations, particularly in industrialisation, capacity building and technology transfer, is playing a crucial role in addressing the continent’s development challenges.

“Africa is benefiting from industrial investments and infrastructure projects that are transforming economies across the continent,” Ali said.

He added that without roads, bridges, railways and power projects, “industrialisation would be impossible.”

Noting that NAN was keenly watching and reporting on this year’s “two sessions,” Ali expected the “two sessions” to reveal more information on future China-Africa cooperation.

“By deepening China-Africa cooperation, more African nations will learn from China’s experience and jointly advance global governance and economic prosperity,” he said.(NAN/Xinhua)
(Edited by Mufutau Ojo)

China inaugurates 2025 economic roadmap, targets 5% GDP growth
Foreign

China inaugurates 2025 economic roadmap, targets 5% GDP growth

By Fortune Abang

The Government of China has inaugurated its 2025 economic Roadmap centred on bolstering five per cent GDP growth, innovation and investment.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the roadmap is centred on boosting consumption, innovation and technology, fiscal and monetary policy implementation, as well as market reform.

China’s Premier Li Qiang disclosed this during the virtual presentation of the Chinese government work report against the backdrop of the third session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) in Beijing, China.

He stated that the focus of the roadmap was fiscal expansion, technological innovation, and foreign investment, outlining a comprehensive approach aimed at sustaining the country’s economic growth amid global uncertainties.

Li said, “A key feature of China’s 2025 economic strategy is an expanded fiscal policy with the deficit-to-GDP ratio set at four per cent, marking a notable increase from the previous year.

“To support economic stimulus, Chinese government plans to issue 1.3 trillion yuan in ultra-long special treasury bonds, up by 300 billion yuan from last year, along with 4.4 trillion yuan in local government special-purpose bonds.

“Such represents a 500 billion yuan increase over 2024 levels; this fiscal expansion is designed to boost domestic consumption.

“Of the ultra-long special treasury bonds, 300 billion yuan will be allocated to consumer goods trade-in programmes.”

Tian Xuan, Deputy to the 14th NPC and Associate Dean at PBC School of Finance, Tsinghua University, explained the significance of the initiative, saying expanding domestic demand is a priority among ten key tasks outlined in the report.

According to Tian, the dedicated 300 billion yuan for trade-in programmes will stimulate consumption, drive transformation and upgrade consumption patterns.

Chan Chun-ying, Hong Kong’s Deputy to the NPC and Advisor at Bank of China Hong Kong Ltd, expressed confidence in the economic target.

He added that China had consistently sustained medium-to-high-speed economic growth.

He restated that such is notable in China’s ability to maintain a five per cent growth rate and demonstrated confidence, which in turn boosted confidence.

“China is prioritising technological advancements in biomanufacturing, quantum-computing, embodied AI and 6G.

“The AI Plus initiative aims to integrate digital technologies with manufacturing strengths, supporting extensive application of large-scale AI models, development of next-generation intelligent terminals and smart manufacturing equipment.

“The emergence of deep-seek has demonstrated that we can achieve global AI capabilities, using cost-effective chips and faster processing speeds,” Chan said.

Erik Solheim, former UN Under-Secretary-General and former Executive-Director of the UN Environment Programme, described the roadmap as China’s commitment to stabilising foreign trade and advancing Belt and Road cooperation.

“China remains a significant force in the world economy with an expected economic growth of five per cent for 2025, China will continue to be the biggest source of global economic growth.

“Stability and innovation are key themes of this year’s two sessions; China is at the forefront of innovation, particularly in the two most important sectors, such as economy and environment,” Solheim said.

High points of the event were remarks by Patrick Nijs, co-founder of the EU-China Joint Innovation Centre and Bernardo Mendia, Board Advisor at the EU Young Entrepreneurs Association. (NAN) (nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Gregg Mmaduakolam/Oluwafunke Ishola

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