The Federal Government has said that she will advance the diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Republic of Cuba on areas of common interest, especially, as touching Trade and Commerce in both countries.
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu made this known today, when the Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Mrs. Mariam Morales Palmero and the delegation from Cuba Chamber of Commerce paid him a courtesy visit, in Abuja.
Speaking, Bagudu said that Nigeria was in collaboration with many countries on global partnership agenda and with long-standing history between Nigeria and Cuba spanning about 50 years, it was always the choice of Nigeria to work with them as Nigeria was currently on a new course of development trajectory, especially with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
The Minister explained that though Cuba could be seen as a Country outside the arena of international Conventions, Nigeria and Cuba could work together in Development Assistance Cooperation for the mutual benefits of both countries.
He also stated that Nigeria was looking forward to bilateral cooperation in the areas of Agriculture, steel development, energy, infrastructure, oil and gas which are critical for huge expansion of the economy.
Bagudu noted, ” considering the age long relationship between the two countries and the resilience of the people of Cuba in promoting peace and equity in the global arena, the Vice President of Nigeria, Dr. Kashim Shettima and State Governor’s have shown interest in promoting the fruitful diplomatic relations between the two countries in all possible areas of interest.” He maintained that the Embassy had actively promoted activities with the Ministry.
“The Federal Government will support Cuba in whatever way possible, we want a world that works for everyone ” the Minister emphasized.
Speaking on the objective of their visit to the Ministry, the Ambassador said that ‘Listening to President Tinubu’s speech on Nigeria’s Democracy day, 2024, we appreciate the development projection of Nigeria because so many points raised coincided with what Cuba is doing. It is therefore clear that both countries are facing similar challenges ”
Palmero therefore hinted that both countries could collaborate on Bio- technology, Pharmaceuticals, Export, capacity building at inter- University level, Agriculture, medicine, Commerce, share scientific research knowledge to improve the status of both countries, holistically.
Other members of the entourage were: Vice President, Cuba Chamber of Commerce, Tania Aguair Fernandez and Director, Africa and Middle East Commercial and Economic Policy Division, Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment, Sergio Espinosa More.
Julie Osagie-Jacobs
Director, Press and Public Relations (BEP)
24/09/24.