Chinese ambassador to Nigeria Yu Dunhai said the China-Africa trade expo would ensure industrialisation and agricultural mechanisation across Africa.

Mr Yu said this in Abuja during the opening ceremony of the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE) Exhibition in Africa (Nigeria).

He said trade expositions were crucial platforms for fostering collaboration and innovation, essential for the continent’s economic growth.

“The CAETE is not just a showcase of products; it is a gateway to a future where African nations can harness their resources effectively and elevate their industries to meet global standards,” he said.

Mr Yu added that the event, which also marks the 18th China Engineering Technology Exhibition, aims to strengthen ties between China and African countries, facilitating knowledge transfer and technological advancements.

He also remarked on the importance of these collaborations, noting that they could improve Nigeria’s agricultural practices and industrial capabilities.

“In this era of globalisation, it is vital for us to work together to address common challenges and seize opportunities for mutual growth,” he added.

The Chinese envoy also urged Nigerian entrepreneurs to participate actively in the expo, emphasising that such engagements would enhance trade and promote sustainable development across the region.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Minister of Transportation, Said Alkali, reiterated the federal government’s commitment to taking advantage of opportunities at the expo to enhance the prospects of the ongoing railway modernisation project across the country.

He also expressed appreciation to the organisers of CAETE for the timely exhibition, given the priority accorded to infrastructure development by the President Bola Tinubu administration as a major component of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“I want to pledge my commitment to ensuring the realisation of the renewed hope agenda of this administration promoted by our dear president through sustainable collaboration with Chinese entities.

“The collaboration with the Chinese entities is to make the transportation infrastructure accessible, safe, secure, and dynamic under our laws that promote environmental friendliness and safety,” Mr Alkali said.

(NAN)