President Bola Tinubu, Thursday in Abuja, said the cordial relations enjoyed between Nigeria, Republic of France, People’s Republic of China, and Kingdom of Denmark over many years should translate into mutual economic benefits for citizens.
He listed education, health and infrastructure as key sectors that require special focus for mutual benefit.
The President made the remarks while hosting the diplomats at the Aso Rock State House while presenting their Letters of Credence.
The ambassadors who presented their letters at a brief ceremony at the State House were Marc Fonbaustier of the French Republic; Ambassador of Kingdom of Denmark, Jens Ole Bach Hansen, and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, Yu Dunhai.
President Tinubu, who is scheduled to pay a state visit to France, told the French Ambassador that his friendship with Emmanuel Macron, and the diplomatic ties between both countries, should be felt by citizens.
He urged for French support for the ongoing reforms in the country, which seeks to strengthen institutions and improve livelihood of citizens.
“Macron has been a good friend over many years, and I am looking forward to the State Visit in Paris to solidify our relationship, and ensure that our citizens also share in the gains of diplomacy between both countries, President Tinubu enthused.
Adding, he said, “I am happy you are not a stranger in Africa from your background. Nigeria is the biggest country on the continent, and the headquarters of ECOWAS is based here. We have an open door policy, and we want your investors to take advantage of it.
“Our collaboration is essential for Africa, ECOWAS and Nigeria. You can always get in touch through Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or the Chief of Staff to the President,’’ the President emphasized.
In a press statement, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy reported the French Ambassador as replying , “Mr. President, I must praise and express my admiration for your achievements. You have taken a bold step in developing the country, and I encourage you to stand, and do the right thing for Nigeria.’’
Mr. Onanuga stated that, “In a meeting with Chinese Ambassador, President Tinubu appreciated the President of the Republic of China, Xi Jinping, for hosting him during his State visit to Beijing, and participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). He urged the envoy to work hard with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to translate the agreements signed into reality.”
To the Danish Ambassador, Mr. Onanuga reported the President as saying, “Your country is known for promotion of democratic values and human rights and we are ready to collaborate with you. We have seen your engagements in the energy sector in your country, and around the world, and we will like to benefit from that.
“We are interested in education, Medicare and areas that directly impact the livelihood of our people. We have seen the progress of the APM terminal in Lagos, a company from the kingdom of Denmark. Nigeria is good for business, and we want to continue to promote that aspect.’’
In reply, the “Danish ambassador said his country has evolved a new strategy to improve relations with Africa, and Nigeria will play a central role in the implementation, considering its size and influence on the continent.
“We recognize your influence globally and regionally, and we will continue to cooperate and expand relations with Nigeria, especially in areas of trade and economy,’’ the ambassador added.
