AFOLABI SAHEED OLAWALE
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, received in audience at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday in Abuja the Ambassador of the Lebanese Republic to Nigeria, H.E, Dr. Wissam Kalakeche.
Discussions underscored the longstanding ties between the two countries and the need to translate their mutual goodwill into mutually beneficial outcomes. Both sides expressed interest in deepening bilateral cooperation through the conclusion and implementation of agreements in areas of mutual interest.
They recognised significant opportunities for increased economic cooperation and agreed on the need to create practical frameworks that would facilitate stronger private-sector partnerships. Reference was made to customs-free and zero-tariff arrangements as potential avenues for greater economic opportunities for businesses and citizens of both countries.
The meeting also highlighted the important role of the Lebanese community in Nigeria as a longstanding bridge between the two countries.
With many members of the community having established deep roots in Nigeria over several generations, both sides acknowledged its contribution to business, commerce and people-to-people relations, as well as its potential to further promote closer economic and cultural ties between Nigeria and Lebanon.
The Honourable Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its relations with Lebanon through sustained diplomatic engagement, enhanced economic cooperation and practical initiatives that would deliver tangible benefits to the peoples of both countries.
The meeting concluded on a warm note, with both sides expressing confidence that continued dialogue and closer institutional engagement would provide renewed impetus for Nigeria