The Chinese Consul General, Yan Yuqing, has restated her commitment to upholding the cordial relationship existing between China and Nigeria. This was during a farewell reception held in her honour, celebrating the 77th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China, the 66th anniversary of Nigeria's independence, and the 55th anniversary of China-Nigeria diplomatic ties.
Yuqing noted that she arrived in Lagos on May 25, 2023, as the eighth Consul General of China in Lagos and the first female Consul General. She described her tenure as both short and long, saying that although the time has been brief, it has allowed for significant friendships to be forged. This year holds extraordinary significance for China-Nigeria and China-Africa relations, with multiple anniversaries and ongoing cooperation.
The China-Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership has deepened, delivering solid results under the strategic guidance of both countries' heads of state. The partnership focuses on cooperation platforms such as the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. Political mutual trust between China and Nigeria has grown, with aligned development plans.
Yuqing emphasized that China's commitment to a lasting friendship with Nigeria remains unchanged. This includes support for Nigeria's independent development path and efforts to improve livelihoods, revitalize industries, and achieve development. The two countries have supported each other's core interests and deepened governance experience exchanges.
The Consulate General has facilitated sister-city relationships between Lagos State and Guangdong Province, Ogun State and Shandong Province, among others. These ties have brought real benefits to both nations. Yuqing highlighted charity programs such as "Renewed Hope, Rebirth from the light" and "Together Fight Against Hunger," which have assisted over 900 Nigerian cataract patients and supported low-income families.
Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, wife of the Lagos State Governor, commended Yuqing for her efforts in ensuring Lagos State benefited during her tenure. The Secretary to the Government of Lagos State, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, celebrated the enduring friendship between China and Nigeria and the growing partnership between China and Lagos State.
Salu-Hundeyin noted that the partnership between Lagos and China is about more than current achievements, but also about the future and opportunities for generations to come. The partnerships have opened avenues for cooperation in trade, science, technology, education, and shared economic advantages, creating opportunities for knowledge transfer, investment, and institutional cooperation.
Key points
- Yuqing reaffirms China's commitment to a lasting friendship with Nigeria
- China and Nigeria celebrate 55 years of diplomatic ties
- The partnership between Lagos and China opens avenues for cooperation in trade, science, and technology.
