Barely 24 hours after the United States of America offered to deploy troops and equipment in the country to help secure the release the abducted girls from Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State, on April 14, the People’s Republic of China has also offered her assistance in the same vain.
The Chinese Premier, Mr Li Keqiang, who is on a state visit to Nigeria as well as attend the 24th World Economic Forum for Africa, made the promise during a bilateral talks with President Goodluck Jonathan at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
In a joint press conference at the end of the bilateral talk, Jonathan said China promised to help Nigeria sustain its sovereignty, rescue the abducted girls, and also assist the country in its fight against terror.
He said, “We agreed to deepen cooperation in the field of defence and security and strengthen cooperation in counter terrorism, anti-piracy and combating organised crimes.
“The Premier expressed firm support to efforts at safeguarding our sovereignty and secure our territorial integrity as well as promoting economic development.
“The Premier promised that China will assist Nigeria in our fight against terror especially our commitment and efforts to rescue the girls that were taken away from a Secondary School in Chibok, Borno State.”
Jonathan further stated that China had also promised to assist Nigeria in the development of its infrastructure like power, transportation, which include air and railway.
He explained that all these were meant to encourage trade and ensure that the nation’s economy is growing and creating employment for the citizens.
Also speaking, the Chinese Premier, Keqiang said the two countries needed to strengthen their relationship and work together to fight terrorism.
He described Nigeria as a major country in Africa, saying China wants to take its partnership with the country to a higher level.
He assured that the Chinese government would honour its words, adding that the two countries have agreed to strengthen their bilateral relations in infrastructure, health, aviation and rail among others.
In a communique released at the end of the meeting, the two leaders agreed to deepen cooperation in the are of defence and security.
They promised to strengthen cooperation in counter-terrorism, anti-piracy and combating organised crimes.
“Both sides agreed that as members of the UN Security Council, they would continue to strengthen coordination and cooperation in the council.
“They expressed their resolve to strengthen coordination and cooperation in African peace and security affairs.
“The Nigerian side expressed appreciation for China’s efforts to actively participate in the meditation of hot spot issues in Africa,” the communique added.
Earlier the two countries Ministrs of Foreign Affairs Aminu Wali and Wang Yi, had read out the communique of the agreements reached.
