The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria hosted a grand reception at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja on Friday, September 27, commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
The event brought together distinguished personalities including Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yu Dunhai, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, state governors, ministers, ambassadors, members of the diplomatic community, and leaders of Chinese enterprises, alongside Chinese and Nigerian nationals.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Yu Dunhai highlighted the enduring friendship between China and Nigeria since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1971. He noted that the two nations have seen strengthened high-level engagements, enhanced political trust, and deepened people-to-people exchanges, resulting in productive cooperation across various sectors.
“China-Nigeria high-level relations always stand at the forefront of China-Africa cooperation,” Yu stated.
He emphasized Nigeria’s significance as China’s largest project contracting market, the second-largest export market, the third-largest trading partner, and a major investment destination in Africa, with bilateral trade reaching an impressive $22.5 billion in 2023.
Ambassador Yu said the cooperation between both countries has resulted in tangible outcomes in areas such as infrastructure, investment, trade, agriculture, and the green economy. He noted that these projects have brought tangible benefits to both Chinese and Nigerian people, significantly contributing to Nigeria’s social and economic development.
Ambassador Yu noted that President Bola Tinubu’s visit to China for the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) has heralded a new era in “our bilateral relations and opened up a new prospect for our practical cooperation.” He emphasized that the over 10 cooperation documents signed at FOCAC will enhance synergies between the Belt and Road Initiative, FOCAC cooperation, and Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda, paving the way for more impactful results.
“Going forward, we aim to jointly build more roads, railways, airports, power grids, and base stations, extending their benefits to your beloved communities and hometowns,” Yu added.
In his remarks, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas said since its founding in 1949, China has undergone transformative changes that have propelled it into a position of global prominence.
“The strides made in economic development, technological innovation, and social progress are nothing short of extraordinary. From being a largely agrarian society to becoming the second-largest economy in the world. Indeed, China’s journey is a testament to resilience and visionary leadership,” he said.
While congratulating the People’s Republic of China on its 75th Anniversary, Speaker Abbas reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to enhancing cooperation between the two nations. He emphasized the importance of establishing a legislative framework to support the agreements reached at the 2024 FOCAC summit.
The celebration featured captivating performances, including displays from Zhengzhou’s Shaolin Kungfu and traditional Quju and Yuju operas, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of China.
On October 1, 1949, Chinese Communist leader Mao Zedong declared the creation of the People’s Republic of China while diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China were established in 1971.
See photos below:
