The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Yu Dunhai, on Thursday met with the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Alieu Touray, in Abuja.
The Chinese envoy in a statement said the meeting reinforces China’s longstanding ties with the West African regional bloc and highlighted new areas of cooperation aimed at boosting development across member states.
Ambassador Yu commended ECOWAS for its contributions over the past five decades, noting that the organisation has remained central to regional integration, peacekeeping, political stability, and the promotion of democratic governance.
He described ECOWAS as “the most influential sub-regional body in Africa,” with a track record that mirrors the aspirations of the continent.
Ambassador Yu emphasized that China’s relationship with ECOWAS stands as a strong example of South–South cooperation and a testament to the enduring China–Africa friendship.
Yu pointed to the ECOWAS headquarters building, constructed with Chinese support, as a landmark symbol of the partnership.
Referencing China’s new development vision, the Ambassador noted that the country’s Recommendations for Formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan reaffirm Beijing’s readiness to deepen cooperation worldwide.
As part of this commitment, he stated that China is prepared to accelerate the implementation of zero-tariff measures for African countries, creating fresh opportunities for West Africa’s economic advancement.
The Envoy also donated a China made vehicle to President Touray for use in his official duties.
In his remarks, President Touray expressed appreciation for China’s ongoing support toward ECOWAS’, institutional development and capacity-building efforts. He applauded China’s rapid development trajectory and reiterated ECOWAS’ endorsement of the four global initiatives proposed by China.
Touray stressed the bloc’s commitment to expanding collaboration with China in key areas, saying that ECOWAS looks forward to “opening a new chapter” in its partnership with Beijing.
