By Joke Kujenya
CONCRETE STEPS have been taken by Nigeria and China to enhance the protection of their citizens’ rights, marking a significant move to strengthen bilateral ties.
The agreement was part of a broader initiative to create a more welcoming business environment for companies from both nations.
This development emerged during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to China, where he engaged in high-level discussions with President Xi Jinping.
The meeting, held ahead of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), resulted in several strategic agreements designed to bolster the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.
The joint communiqué issued on Tuesday emphasized the mutual commitment to safeguarding citizens’ rights and fostering deeper cooperation at various levels of government.
By encouraging friendly relations between Nigerian and Chinese provinces, states, and municipalities, both nations aim to expand and deepen their partnership at the sub-national level.
Moreover, Nigeria and China pledged to support the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) multilateral trading system, firmly opposing trade protectionism.
The communiqué underscored their resolve to promote trade and investment liberalization while ensuring a transparent and non-discriminatory business environment.
This agreement signals the dawn of a new era of economic collaboration and enhanced people-to-people exchanges between the two nations.
In their commitment to protecting the lawful rights and interests of each other’s citizens, Nigeria and China have set a precedent for other countries seeking to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties.
The leaders’ joint efforts reflect a shared vision for a future where bilateral cooperation thrives on mutual respect, transparency, and a dedication to improving the lives of their citizens.
