Following the redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by U.S. President Donald Trump, China has expressed support for Nigeria.
President Trump had last weekend, accused Nigeria of engaging in severe violations of religious freedom in contravention of the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998.
The US President had threatened to take military actions against Nigeria if the federal government fails to take decisive measures to redress the anomaly
China has, however, expressed its support for Nigeria’s handling of religious issues in the country, stressing that it supports the Nigerian government’s right to pursue a development path that aligns with its national realities.
It declared opposition to any external interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs.
“As a comprehensive strategic partner of Nigeria, China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people on a development path that fits Nigeria’s national realities.
“We oppose any country’s interference in other countries’ internal affairs under the pretext of religion and human rights.
“We oppose the wanton threat of sanctions and the use of force,” Mao Ning, the spokesman for Chinese Foreign Ministry, said in a statement published on the ministry’s website.
GIK/APA