In line with its commitment to deepening people-to-people friendship, the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria on Friday hosted the fifth edition of the annual China-NUJ Table Tennis Tournament at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja, the nation’s capital city.
In his welcome address, Zhang Yi, Minister Counsellor of the Embassy, said the tournament provides a unique opportunity for both countries to strengthen bilateral relationships through sports.
Mr Zhang, who represented the Chinese Ambassador at the event, expressed satisfaction with the level of potential, skills and interest shown by Nigerians in playing table tennis, a sport very popular among the Chinese people.
He thanked Nigerian journalists, especially those in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, for sharing stories that promote China-Nigeria friendship, stressing that no nation or society can develop without the contribution of the media.
“In a world of misinformation and disinformation, we need good journalists to tell real stories. As far as China-Nigeria is concerned, I would like to thank the Nigerian journalists, especially members of the NUJ in FCT, for disseminating good stories about our two countries and two peoples,” Mr Zhang said.
“Without you, I don’t think Nigerians would know about the win-win cooperation in our bilateral ties, and the Chinese wouldn’t have better knowledge about Nigeria. You have raised the bar higher in our bilateral ties and people-to-people communications.”
Also speaking, Osaretin Osadebamwen, Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT council, said the tournament provides a relaxed atmosphere for Nigerians and Chinese to engage in fruitful exchange for the benefit of both countries.
While thanking the Embassy for hosting the games, the chairman expressed satisfaction with the Chinese government and companies for investing in Nigeria’s infrastructural development and economic growth.
53 FCT journalists representing various media houses and 10 Chinese athletes participated in the keenly contested tournament across three categories – Men Single, Female Single and Mixed Double.
After hours of intense competition, Tiennabeso Bibiye of the African Independent Television (AIT) won gold in the men’s single, while Yang Yuan emerged as the winner of the female single. Also, Wang Guangbin and Yang Yuan won gold in the mixed doubles category.
Winners and runners-up received trophies and medals, while other athletes got certificates for participating in the tourney.
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