To mark the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Nigerian counterpart Geoffrey Onyeama have held celebration activities in Beijing. The two countries vowed to deepen cooperation in all fields. 

On the 45th anniversary of the founding of diplomatic ties between China and Nigeria. The two foreign ministers unveiled a commemorative envelope to mark friendship and cooperation.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke highly of the achievements the two countries have made and expressed hope for further ties.

"Over the past 45 years, China and Nigeria attach great importance to developing friendship and cooperation with each other, and see each other as vital strategic partners,"

"Our two countries understand and support each other's efforts to explore a development path that suits national conditions. Indeed, this political mutual trust has been strengthened," said Wang.

Nigerian Foreign Minister Geoffrey Onyeama thanked China for its long-term assistance to Nigeria. He admitted his country is facing challenges.

"Our country Nigeria is at a cross road now...we appreciate the efforts China has made," said Geoffrey Onyeama.

During the bilateral talks, the two ministers agreed to expand bilateral cooperation in areas such as agriculture, fisheries, oil refining, mineral exploitation, light industry, textiles and processing.

China is willing to help Nigeria address bottlenecks impeding the country's development, by building infrastructure, training workers, and providing financial support.

Leaders from the two countries vow to increase cooperation in the areas of infrastructure, agriculture, education and media. China will support Nigeria playing a bigger role in international and regional affairs, and strengthen communication and coordination on major issues such as the peace and stability of Africa, climate change, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.