Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with China in key areas such as renewable energy, healthcare, and education.

Mr Sanwo-Olu stated this at the 75th-anniversary celebration of China, held on Monday at Lekki, Lagos.

The governor praised China as a valuable partner and friend whose cooperation had unlocked new potentials in the sub-Saharan region.

The governor highlighted the successful collaboration between Lagos state and China, which had driven significant infrastructure developments.

He cited projects, including the Lekki Deep Seaport, Lekki Free Trade Zone, and Lagos-Ibadan railway, as examples of the positive outcomes of this cooperation.

He said the cooperation had enhanced economic capacities, created jobs, and improved the quality of life for thousands of Nigerians.

Mr Sanwo-Olu also commended the Chinese community in Lagos for promoting cultural diversity and enriching the state’s social fabric.

He noted that the growth of Chinese language schools, cultural centres, and businesses had contributed to the state’s vibrant diversity.

The governor described China’s transformation over the past 75 years as “extraordinary,” overcoming challenges to become a global leader in technology, manufacturing, and economic growth.

He hailed China’s story as a symbol of resilience, vision, and commitment and looked forward to continued cooperation and a brighter future between Lagos state and China.

Yan Yuping, China’s consul general in Lagos, reiterated the Chinese consulate’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Lagos, building on the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Nigeria.

She highlighted the consulate’s goals of exploring new fields of cooperation, promoting friendly exchanges, and working towards a shared future.

Ms Yuging reflected on China’s progress over the past 75 years, rising from a “latecomer to modernisation” to a “driving force of global modernisation,” becoming the world’s second-largest economy and eliminating absolute poverty.

She noted the growth in China-Nigeria bilateral trade and vibrant exchanges in various fields, solidifying public support for the partnership.

Ms Yuping emphasised the importance of standing together, hand in hand, to navigate the future of China-Africa solidarity and cooperation, ensuring a bright future for generations to come.

(NAN)