By Lizzy Okoji
Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, has said his country has no intention of taking over Nigeria’s critical assets as repayment for loan in the event of default.
Jianchun made this known during the visit of the Chinese Special Representative on African Affairs, Liu Yuxi to Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Zubairu Dada on Thursday in Abuja.
The visit of the Chinese Special Representative to Africa is geared towards strengthening Nigeria and China relations.
He expressed China’s willingness to work with Nigeria for the benefit of both countries.
Jianchun said that China and Nigeria are working on the basis of mutual trust and that his country has no intention of taking over Nigeria’s assets in a situation where it fails in the repayment of loans it took from China. He added that it is not part of the agreement reached between the two countries as insinuated in some quarters.
Yuxi, while expressing the Chinese government’s full commitment to improved bilateral relationships with Nigeria, appreciated Nigeria for upholding the One China Policy. He said China just like Nigeria, will continue to support the policy of non-interference at the international level.
Dada, in his remarks, said Nigeria cherishes the relationship that exists between the two countries which he pointed out has improved tremendously over time.
He said the commitments so far shown by the Chinese government in assisting Nigeria to address the challenges of decaying infrastructure and building new ones have clearly demonstrated the level of friendship between the two countries.