The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria and to ECOWAS, Mr. Yu Dunhai, has pledged China’s continued support for regional integration and governance reforms in West Africa during a meeting with the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Touray.
In a statement issued by the Chinese Embassy in Abuja on Thursday, Yu commended ECOWAS for its significant contributions over the past 50 years, noting its leadership in advancing democratic governance, maintaining regional stability and fostering economic integration.
He also described ECOWAS as the most influential sub-regional bloc in Africa.
He said China’s longstanding partnership with ECOWAS stands as a model of South–South cooperation, with projects such as the China-funded ECOWAS headquarters serving as flagship symbols of both sides’ collaboration.
According to him, China’s new development blueprint, the Recommendations of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China for Formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan, reaffirms Beijing’s commitment to sharing development opportunities globally.
He added that China is ready to accelerate the implementation of zero-tariff measures in Africa, which he said would open new economic prospects for West African nations.
Responding, Touray expressed appreciation for China’s unwavering support for ECOWAS, particularly in capacity-building and institutional strengthening.
He commended China’s development achievements and reaffirmed the bloc’s support for the four global initiatives proposed by Beijing.
Touray also added that ECOWAS looks forward to expanding cooperation and opening a new chapter in relations between China and ECOWAS.
The two sides exchanged gifts, with the Chinese side presenting a China-made official vehicle to the ECOWAS President for use in his duties, and Touray also presented an African artwork to foster friendship between China and the bloc.
NAN
