The Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy has reiterated the federal government’s commitment to strengthen trade and tourism relationships with China.

The ministry’s permanent secretary, Oraeluno Raphael, stated this on Saturday in Abuja at the Chinese New Year Temple Fair, also known as the spring festival.

Mr Raphael said the relationship between Nigeria and China was immersed in history, marked by mutual respect and shared aspirations.

Comparing the evolving bilateral relationship to the ‘shedding of a snake’s skin’, the permanent secretary highlighted the significance of continued growth and transformation.

He underscored the cultural connections between the two nations, describing it as a “vital link” that fosters understanding and unity among their respective people.

“We recognise the diversity and richness of both Nigerian and Chinese cultures through the common values of family, community, and reverence for elders which serve as foundations for enduring friendship,” he said.

He congratulated the government of the People’s Republic of China and the entire Chinese community in Nigeria on the celebration of the 2025 Chinese Temple Fair.

Mr Raphael also appreciated the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria for their consistent support across various sectors, particularly in culture and tourism.

He said this had facilitated economic prosperity through cultural exchanges, exhibitions, and tourism initiatives.

Mr Raphael expressed the ministry’s dedication to implementing policies and programmes that promote cultural exchange, foster artistic collaborations, and enhance tourism opportunities.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, said the Year of the Snake in the Chinese Zodiac, commencing on January 29, 2025, heralds a significant chapter in the thriving relationship between China and Nigeria.

Mr Dunhai also described the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, as a “catalyst” for elevating the strategic partnership between the two countries.

“Following a successful meeting between the two heads of state, the countries pledged to enhance cooperation across various sectors, exemplifying a model of mutual benefit and win-win collaboration for the Global South.

“The commencement of the forecast Vision Action Plan in 2025, also signals a new era of progress and collaboration between China and Nigeria.

“Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s recent visit to Nigeria further solidified the commitment to expanding cooperation and implementing key agreements made at the highest levels of leadership,” he said.

He also congratulated Nigeria for officially joining the BRICS group as a partner country, saying it would bolster Nigeria’s social and economic development prospects and augment cooperation within the BRICS framework.

He said that the inclusion of Nigeria, the most populous and largest country in Africa, was a testament to the country’s growing influence on the global stage. 

(NAN)