Vice President Kashim Shettima embarked on two significant diplomatic missions, representing President Bola Tinubu on the world stage. Shettima’s journey began with his departure from Abuja to Beijing, China, where he will participate in the 3rd Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum taking place from October 16 to 18, 2023.
His delegation to the BRI Forum includes key ministers and officials, highlighting Nigeria’s commitment to global cooperation.
The theme of the Forum, “High-quality Belt and Road Cooperation: Together for Common Development and Prosperity,” will be the focal point of discussions, with leaders from over 130 countries participating.
Shettima’s primary objectives during the Forum are to attract foreign investments for developmental projects and engage in bilateral meetings with world leaders to enhance Nigeria’s trade and investment relations, in line with President Tinubu’s economic development agenda.
The Belt and Road Initiative, initiated by China’s President Xi Jinping in 2013, has grown into a global infrastructure development strategy involving nearly 70 countries across Asia, Africa, and Europe. Nigeria, under former President Muhammadu Buhari, signed a cooperation agreement with China as part of the BRI, paving the way for infrastructure investments in various sectors.
In addition to his visit to China, Vice President Shettima will travel to the United States of America. As a special guest, he will deliver the keynote address at the Norman E.
Borlaug International Dialogue, facilitated by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the World Food Prize. This event, scheduled for October 24, 2023, focuses on food security and diversification.
Shettima joins a distinguished list of African international leaders who have addressed the Borlaug Dialogue in the past.
His address will emphasize the agro-food sector reforms undertaken by the Tinubu administration and offer investment opportunities in Nigeria to various stakeholders, partners, and investors.
The Vice President’s diplomatic missions to China and the USA reflect Nigeria’s commitment to fostering international cooperation, economic development, and food security.
CREDIT: Thisdaynews
