ISLAMABAD, Oct 29 (APP): Pakistan and Nigeria on Thursday called for strengthening their longstanding friendship through enhanced strategic cooperation in defence, security, trade, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, energy and information technology.
The call was made during a National Day celebration of Nigeria, jointly organised by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI)’s Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa (CAMEA) and the Pakistan Africa Institute for Development and Research (PAIDAR), said a press release.
Charge d’Affaires of Nigeria to Pakistan Mohammed Yasau said the two countries needed to move beyond their historical ties towards a more dynamic and forward-looking strategic partnership. He emphasised the need to translate mutual trust and shared aspirations into tangible cooperation in defence and security, trade, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, energy and information technology, while strengthening coordination at multilateral forums.
He underscored that Nigeria and Pakistan have a shared responsibility to advance global peace, equitable development and a more representative international order.
In his introductory remarks, Ambassador Moin ul Haque, Director General ISSI, highlighted Nigeria’s economic potential, cultural heritage and regional leadership. He underscored the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and Nigeria since 1961. He called for increased bilateral trade and faster progress on the bilateral trade treaty.
Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed recalled the historical ties between Pakistan and Nigeria, including the legacy of Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. He also emphasised Africa’s growing global significance and the opportunities for Pakistan through trade, investment, education and research. He reaffirmed the importance of turning longstanding goodwill into practical cooperation between Pakistan and African countries.
Muhammad Imran, Head of Chancery, Pakistan’s Mission in Nigeria, stated that there is immense potential for enhanced cooperation in trade and investment, education and other key sectors. He emphasised the importance of strengthening business ties between the two countries.
Dr Amina Khan, Director CAMEA in her welcome remarks underscored CAMEA’s commitment to deepening Pakistan’s intellectual engagement with Africa and promoting greater understanding of the Continent. She also emphasised the importance of strengthening ties with African partners through dialogue and shared learning.
In his concluding remarks, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman, Board of Governors ISSI, describe Nigeria as the “Giant of Africa”, highlighting its energy, talent and ambition. He also commended CAMEA and the Nigeria Mission for organising the gathering and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
