Strengthening Nigeria-Colombia Relations: A New Era of Partnership
Senator Kashim Shettima, Vice President of Nigeria, has described the official visit of Colombia’s Vice President, Mrs. Francia Márquez, as a pivotal moment that promises to open a fresh chapter in the bilateral relationship between the two nations.
High-Level Delegation Arrives in Abuja
On Saturday, Mrs. Francia Márquez, accompanied by her husband, Mr. Rafael Yerney Pinillo Ocoró, and a delegation comprising cabinet ministers, senior government officials, and business leaders, landed in Abuja for a three-day official visit. Their agenda includes comprehensive discussions with Nigerian counterparts aimed at enhancing cooperation across political, economic, and cultural sectors.
A Vision for Deeper Collaboration
During a Gala Dinner held at the Presidential Villa on Sunday evening in honor of the Colombian delegation, Vice President Shettima, through his spokesperson Stanley Nkwocha, emphasized that Mrs. Márquez’s visit symbolizes a dawn of renewed friendship and collaboration. He highlighted that this engagement is a testament to the growing political solidarity, ambitious economic partnerships, and enriched cultural exchanges between Nigeria and Colombia.
Expressing the warm regards of President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian people, Shettima remarked, “This historic visit and the forthcoming dialogues mark the beginning of a promising journey. Nigeria is committed to sowing seeds of mutual trust, nurturing them through open communication, and harvesting a future of shared prosperity for generations to come.”
Shared History and Common Aspirations
Reflecting on the 51-year diplomatic relationship, the Nigerian Vice President noted, “Our countries have stood side by side, connected not only by formal ties but by a profound sense of shared humanity. Despite the physical distance, our hearts have always recognized the closeness of our bond.”
He concluded his toast by wishing for “strengthened ties between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Colombia,” hoping that this landmark visit would bear fruitful outcomes for both nations.
Colombian Vice President Highlights Strategic Importance
Mrs. Francia Márquez described her visit as both strategic and historic, underscoring the deep-rooted cultural and historical connections between Colombia and Nigeria. As a woman of African heritage, she emphasized her commitment to advancing cooperation in social justice, peacebuilding, tourism, healthcare, culture, and education.
She further pledged to utilize Colombia’s influential position in South America to boost trade and diplomatic relations between the two continents, fostering stronger Africa-Latin America ties.
In a gesture of solidarity, Mrs. Márquez extended condolences from the Colombian President to Nigeria on the recent passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Celebrating Cultural and Economic Synergies
Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), described the gala dinner as a celebration of the enduring friendship and partnership between Nigeria and Colombia. He highlighted the untapped potential within both countries that, if fully leveraged, could significantly enhance key economic sectors.
Senator Hadejia also noted that the evening was an opportunity to honor the rich cultural heritage of both nations, emphasizing that the diplomatic relationship extends beyond formal agreements to include vibrant exchanges in arts, music, and culinary traditions.
The event was graced by prominent ministers and senior officials from both Nigeria and Colombia, symbolizing the high-level commitment to fostering a robust and multifaceted partnership.
0 Comments