Taiwan is urging Nigeria to move its mission office back to Abuja, seeking improved diplomatic and economic relations. Taiwan’s Head of Mission, Andy Yih-Ping Liu, emphasized the country’s technological expertise to assist Nigeria’s resource development. Liu also proposed signing the Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA) to enhance cooperation. Additionally, Nigerian legislators highlighted the need for collaboration in technology to bolster economic growth.
Taiwan is advocating for enhanced diplomatic ties with Nigeria, emphasizing mutual socio-economic benefits. Taiwan’s Head of Mission in Nigeria, Andy Yih-Ping Liu, has urged President Bola Tinubu to move Taiwan’s mission office from Lagos back to Abuja, reflecting Nigeria’s central governance since 2000.
Liu highlighted Taiwan’s lack of natural resources but stressed its expertise in utilizing Nigeria’s resources, proposing cooperation in sectors like agriculture and energy. He mentioned Taiwan’s successful partnerships, particularly with Australia, as a model for Nigeria.
Stressing Taiwan’s independence, Liu declared that the Taiwanese Mission operates autonomously, with China unable to influence its visa issuance. He criticized past actions of former President Muhammadu Buhari in relocating the mission and urged Tinubu to restore its location in Abuja.
Liu proposed that Nigeria sign the Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA) to strengthen bilateral relations and facilitate economic growth. He acknowledged Tinubu’s support for non-alignment in foreign policy, pointing out his commitment to recognizing Taiwan’s industrial progress.
The Taiwanese diplomat also noted the significance of revitalizing a 1991 bilateral agreement for modern-day relevance. During a recent meeting, Nigeria’s House of Representatives Committee on Science and Engineering chairperson, Inuwa Garba, emphasized the potential advantages of collaboration in technology and engineering to enhance Nigeria’s economic landscape.
In summary, Taiwan is seeking to improve its diplomatic relationship with Nigeria by relocating its mission to Abuja and enhancing cooperation in various sectors. Emphasis on Taiwan’s unique resources, along with the proposal for an investment agreement, is aimed at fostering economic collaboration that can benefit both nations. This relationship is also framed within the context of Taiwan’s autonomy from Chinese influence.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
