President Bola Tinubu has called for the enhancement of the economic value of bilateral relations between Nigeria and partner nations.

Tinubu made the call when he received Letters of Credence from the Ambassadors of Portugal, Jorge Adao Martins Dos Santos; the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Biu Quoc Hung; and the State of Kuwait, Salim Khalifa Mohammed Almuzayen; at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, July 18, 2024.

The president expressed his appreciation for Nigeria’s long-standing relations with Portugal and the shared interest in the areas of trade and culture, as well as partnership in oil and gas, which he said has translated into gains for both countries.

He said: “It is good to have you in Nigeria. I am happy you are familiar with Nigeria and the environment. I believe that with your presence, our bilateral relations will be further improved. I am happy you are also present in other West African countries.

“I have been informed of your economic interest in Nigeria. We need to work together for more localized productions as regards mineral deposits. I have an open-door policy, and you can always reach me through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and my Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.”

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In his response, the Portuguese Ambassador said investors from his country have a keen interest in Nigeria, adding that the trade with Nigeria on gas predated the war between Russia and Ukraine, and will be sustained.

He stated: “I will work on our agreements on improving economic relations. There is no shortage of interest in the areas of development where we can be partners. We are one of the highest buyers of gas from Nigeria, and we remain grateful for the supplies.

“We have long-standing mutual relations when it comes to energy. Before the Russia and Ukraine war, we have been getting our gas from Nigeria. Portuguese companies are also handling the rail line construction from Kano to Niger Republic. It will be ready in two years.”

In his meeting with the Ambassador of Vietnam, President Tinubu said the manufacturing sector in Nigeria is ready to benefit from the automating skills and technology of the Asian country.

Responding, the Vietnamese Ambassador said he is in Nigeria to strengthen relations and improve economic ties.

In another meeting, Tinubu thanked the Ambassador of Kuwait for his country’s long-standing good relations with Nigeria and extended his appreciation to the Emir and the Crown Prince.

“I am glad we are pulling strings to enhance the value of our relationship. We are both committed to the development of our people and will explore opportunities for economic ties. I have an open-door policy so you can always reach me,” the president said.

Almuzayen, on his part, assured Tinubu that he would do his best to strengthen bilateral ties for the mutual benefit of both countries.

The Star