The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Gu Xiaojie, said this at a reception to mark 45 years of diplomatic relations between both countries in Abuja on Thursday night.

Mr. Xiaojie explained that both countries had strengthened bilateral relations since 1971.

“China and Nigeria have enjoyed longstanding friendly exchanges 45 years ago on February 10, 1971 since the two countries established diplomatic relations.

“In 1971, the bilateral trade volume was only $10 million, nowadays the bilateral trade volume is hundred times that of 1971.

“Nigeria is China’s largest engineering contracted projects market in Africa; Nigeria is the second largest export market of China in Africa and Nigeria is also the third biggest trading partner and major investment destination in Africa.

“By the end of 2015, China’s cumulated, non-financial direct investment is more than $13 billion.

“Cooperative projects such as the launch of satellite, construction of railroad and the fast development of Lekki and Ogun free trade zones are the true story of China- Nigeria pragmatic cooperation,” he said.

Credit: PremiumTimes