President Tinubu Urges China To Boost $2b Currency Swap
Story/Photo Credit: von.gov.ng
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the Chinese government to increase the existing $2 Billion currency swap agreement with Nigeria to further boost trade between the two nations.
This call, according to von.gov.ng, was sequel to recent discussions aimed at strengthening economic ties and facilitating smoother transactions.
He also called for an upward review of the $50 Billion aid package for Africa, which China’s President, Xi Jinping announced last year.
China and Nigeria recently renewed their currency swap agreement, valued at 15 Billion yuan (approximately $2 Billion), to enhance trade and investment.
Receiving the Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, Wang Yi, at the State House, the President said increasing the level of currency swaps would speed up the infrastructure development in Nigeria and deepen the strategic bilateral relations.
He said; “We still demand more in the area of currency swap. The level you have approved as a government for Nigeria is inadequate considering our programme. If you can increase that, it will be well appreciated.”
“Our bond should grow stronger and become unbreakable,” the President said.
Regarding the 50b Dollars pledged by the Chinese Government to support Africa, President Tinubu noted that the continent’s infrastructure needs would require more commitment, urging a review of the amount to reflect the continent’s reality.
He said; “I am happy you are part of China’s highest decision-making body. We will want you to use your position to influence improved project funding. First, I say yes to the 50 billion dollar support, and thank you for contributing to African growth.”
“The infrastructure needs of Africa are greater than that, and we want to move as rapidly as our other counterparts. All share your vision of rapid development.
Africa values the relationship with China, and we seek deeper collaboration for infrastructural development,” he stated.
Permanent Security Council
President Tinubu called on China to support Nigeria’s bid for a permanent United Nations Security Council seat.
He said; “You are a member of the UN Security Council. We want you to use your influence to ensure Nigeria secures the seat.”
President Tinubu thanked President Xi Jinping for his warm reception during his visit to China last year.
He said Africa, particularly Nigeria, is prepared to meet developmental goals and contribute counterpart project funding.
President Tinubu said; “We are ready to move and reach the various developmental goals. Due to our deliberation, we signed many MOUs and planned many action programmes.
“My visit during FOCAC was a good experience. We signed several comprehensive MOUs during the visit. We planned several programmes of action. As a result of that deliberation, I made sure that immediately after I returned, I appointed one of the best brains available to coordinate Nigeria-China relations, Mr Joseph Tegbe. He will work to actualise various MOUs and promote a greater understanding of developmental programmes.”
“It is good that you came at such a critical time. My visit to China was a good experience. Once again, accept my sympathy for the earthquake in Tibet. It was a natural disaster that nobody expected. We commend your Government for the rapid reaction to protect lives,” President Tinubu added.
Yi thanked President Tinubu for appointing a Director General and Global Liaison, Nigeria- China Strategic Partnership, to oversee the implementation of the MOUs for the rapid development of the Nigerian economy.
He said; “I would like to thank Nigeria for abiding by the one-China principle, and we will continue to support Nigeria in achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda, countering terrorism and ensuring regional security.”
Chinese investment
Yi said Chinese investments in the country would focus on employment generation and infrastructural development.
He said the Chinese National Development Bank had started funding some development projects.
He also said; “the Chinese Government would support including an African country in the UN Security Council, adding that “it was a historical injustice by the world that should be corrected”.
“We stand with Africa, and we will not support a country that invades another country,” Yi stated.
BRICS
The Foreign Minister said China would welcome Nigeria’s membership in the BRICS and participation in the global development mechanism.
He said China fully supported Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), for a second term in office.
Commendations
The Minister lauded President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and consistency in projecting Africa’s needs, which require China’s support.
He said; “You brought Renewed Hope to the people of Nigeria. Your economy has sustained sound momentum, and Nigeria’s global influence has steadily increased. Nigeria has played an important role in upholding regional peace and has become an important force for African stability.”
“We congratulate Nigeria on its achievements and believe that, under your leadership, Nigeria will realise greater achievements,” the Chinese Foreign Minister added.
