Nigeria Seeks Closer Ties with Cuba Ahead of G77+China Summit
As the G77+China Leaders’ Summit looms, Nigeria is gearing up to reinforce its longstanding relationship with Cuba. Vice President Kashim Shettima expressed the nation’s eagerness to enhance bilateral ties with Cuba during his visit to Havana.
Nigeria’s Vice President, Shettima, conveyed his government’s commitment to deepening the already strong bond between the two nations. This aspiration was revealed in a statement titled ‘G77+China Leaders’ Summit: Nigeria, Cuba to deepen strategic relations,’ issued by the State House Director of Information, Office of the Vice President, Olusola Abiola.
Shettima acknowledged the history of cooperation between Nigeria, Africa, and Cuba, emphasizing the significance of Cuba’s support for Southern Africa. He stated that Nigeria holds Cuba in high regard for its unwavering commitment to Africa. To explore future avenues of collaboration, Shettima was accompanied by the Ministers of Agriculture and Science, Technology, and Innovation.
The Vice President stressed the need to explore opportunities in key sectors, including Science, Technology, Innovation, and agriculture. During the visit, Shettima also delivered a special message from President Bola Tinubu, reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to strengthening mutual relations.
Cuba’s Vice President, Salvador Valdez Mesa, commended Nigeria for its leadership role in Africa and the world. Mesa underscored Cuba’s commitment to its relationship with Nigeria, emphasizing the historical support Cuba has provided to Africa. He expressed readiness to explore new areas of collaboration, particularly in health, biodiversity, and agriculture.
The G77+China Leaders’ Summit, hosted by Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, focuses on “Current Development Challenges: The Role of Science, Technology, and Innovation.”
Vice President Shettima led a delegation that included the Ministers of Agriculture and Rural Development, Innovation, Science, and Technology, as well as the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Nigeria’s Ambassador to Cuba.
This diplomatic initiative underscores Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening global partnerships and fostering collaboration across various sectors, with a particular emphasis on addressing contemporary development challenges through the prism of science, technology, and innovation.
