APA – Lagos (Nigeria)
The Chinese Navy Escort Task Group (ETG) 162, comprising MSL Destroyer NANNING, MSL Frigate SANYA, and Supply Ship WEISHANHU, berthed in Nigeria on Sunday to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Chi Jian Chun, said that the visit of the Chinese envoy, scheduled for July 2 to 6, would also enhance maritime security within West Africa.
According to local media reports, the MSL Destroyer NANNING, made the port call at the Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) Berth 21, while the other two ships remained at anchorage.
Chun explained that the delegation from China was more than 700 people and three ships and that the visit was to “further deepen the relations the two countries have with one another and also seek to strengthen and improve our relations and cooperation with each other”.
“This visit demonstrates the harmony and symphony between Nigeria and China,” he said.
He assured that China and Nigeria would continue to work together and promote peace and harmony, while also seeking ways to make contributions to the international community.
In his remarks, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Adm. Joseph Akpan, said that the visit would further help to cement relations between the two countries.
This is “especially between the Nigerian Navy and the Chinese Navy as well as the military. This will help us fight crimes, especially in the Gulf of Guinea.
“During their period of stay, our men will be interacting, we will be having some sporting activities, exchange of momentous and gifts.
“We will also discuss the future of both navies, especially on how we can benefit from each other,” Akpan said.
He explained that the term called ‘sea riders’ enabled some of the Nigerian Navy personnel onboard the Chinese ship and they could also have some of their own men onboard our ship.
“This helps to foster friendship across the horizon,” Akpan added.
GIK/APA
700 Chinese delegation, 3 ships in Nigeria to strengthen bilateral relations
