Sweden has opened a new consulate in Lagos to broaden economic cooperation between it and Nigeria.

The consulate was inaugurated on Thursday by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at Landmark Towers, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Swedish ambassador to Nigeria, Carl Michael Gräns, said the consulate in Lagos would be a focal point for trade and socio-cultural activities for both countries.

Mr Gräns emphasised that Sweden’s first embassy was opened in Nigeria on October 1, 1961, adding that both countries had celebrated 60 years of diplomatic relations.

“Right now, we want to broaden our economic cooperation, and that is one of the reasons this honorary consulate has been opened,” said the Swedish ambassador. “We understand that the pandemic has done a lot of harm to businesses and relations, but we desire to get closer and be a significant part of the economic recovery.”

He added that the new honorary consul would conduct affairs for Swedish citizens and Nigerians on business issues, including cultural promotion.

Philip Akesson, newly appointed honorary consul of Sweden in Lagos, said his primary task was to assist Swedish citizens in Nigeria with consular matters while also supporting Swedish companies in necessary ways.

Mr Akesson stated that in the course of his 10 years in Nigeria, he fell in love with the entrepreneurial energy, warmth, economic culture and drive of Nigerians.

Also speaking, Mr Sanwo-Olu explained that Lagos was open to more business partnerships with Sweden.

According to the governor, the consulate will strengthen Swedish-Nigerian businesses leading to mutually beneficial economic, cultural and political results.

(NAN)