China targets stronger trade relations with Nigeria

China has said it is working on building stronger trade relations with Nigeria.

The China General Chambers of Commerce in Nigeria declared this on Thursday during the opening of the 3rd Belt and Road China-Nigeria Economic and Trade Exhibition in Abuja.

Mr Liu Jiang, Deputy General Manager of CCECC Nigeria Limited and the representative of the Chairman of the Chambers, said: “We are committed to enhancing and strengthening our cooperation by working closely with local partners to play harmony with China- Nigeria relations.

“It is important to note that a number of landmark projects have been completed from oil and gas, infrastructure, manufacturing, communications, Agriculture, mining, internet, and other fields in addition.

“This economic and trade exchange will create more opportunities for Chinese and Nigerian enterprises and strengthen win-win cooperation.

He said the Belt and Road initiative proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping aims to promote policy communication, infrastructure connectivity, unimpeded trade, financial integration, and people-to-people exchange among countries.

In his remarks, Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu, Chairman of the House Committee on Nigeria-China Relations, House of Representatives, said: “This initiative (Belt and Road initiative) has brought about tremendous opportunities for economic developments, infrastructural enhancement, and cultural exchange between our two nations.

“The Belt and Road initiative, launched by China in 2013, aims to connect Asia with Europe, Africa, and beyond through a series of infrastructural projects, such as roads, railways, ports, and energy facilities.

“Nigeria being the largest economy in Africa has become a key participant in this initiative seeking to improve its infrastructure, boost trade, and enhance its overall development framework.