Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India’s strategic relationship with Nigeria, focusing on defence, energy, and trade during discussions with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He highlighted collaboration against terrorism and expressed gratitude for the welfare of the Indian expatriate community. Modi announced relief supplies for those affected by floods and noted the African Union’s G20 membership as significant. The visit, marking the first of its kind in 17 years, is expected to yield several agreements as India continues to enhance its diplomatic ties with Nigeria.
India places considerable emphasis on enhancing its strategic partnership with Nigeria, focusing on diverse sectors such as defence, energy, and trade. Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated these priorities during discussions with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja. He identified pressing global challenges, including terrorism and drug trafficking, emphasizing the necessity for collaborative efforts to address these issues. During this visit, Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the substantial Indian expatriate community in Nigeria, which consists of approximately 60,000 individuals, and expressed gratitude towards President Tinubu for their welfare. Furthermore, he announced an immediate shipment of 20 tonnes of relief supplies in response to recent flooding in Nigeria. Modi also highlighted the significance of the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20, a pivotal outcome from the summit hosted by India last year. Prior to the larger delegation talks, both leaders engaged in a private meeting at the Presidential Villa, and the Prime Minister received a ceremonial welcome. It is anticipated that several agreements will be signed as a result of these discussions. This trip marks the first visit of an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years, illustrating its importance to India’s foreign policy. Notably, India and Nigeria formalized their strategic partnership in 2007, a reaffirmation of their longstanding bilateral relations that have flourished for over six decades since India established its diplomatic mission in Lagos shortly before Nigeria’s independence.
The strategic partnership between India and Nigeria has been a cornerstone of diplomatic relations for over sixty years. India’s engagement with Nigeria escalated to a high-level partnership in 2007 under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Nigeria, with the largest Indian expatriate community in West Africa, strengthens the bilateral relationship significantly. This ties encompass various sectors, primarily focused on development assistance and investment opportunities that benefit both nations. The ongoing cooperation is reflective of India’s broader diplomatic interests in Africa, particularly with the recent integration of the African Union into the G20 framework, signaling a commitment towards fostering strengthened ties with African nations.
In summary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nigeria underscores India’s commitment to reinforcing its strategic partnership with Nigeria across several critical sectors including defence, trade, and energy. The recognition of mutual challenges and the emphasis on cooperation exemplify a robust diplomatic relationship. As both nations look forward to signing agreements and enhancing mutual support, this partnership is set to evolve into a new era, reflecting a shared vision for growth and stability.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
