Nigeria, Cote D’Ivoire Sign Agreements On Economic Development

Nigeria and Cote D’Ivoire last Thursday signed Bi-National Commission (BNC) Framework agreements to pave way for both countries to attain meaningful and sustainable economic and socio-political development.
Signing the document on behalf of Nigeria, Vice President Namadi Sambo said that the establishment of the Bi-National Commission would help strengthen the bilateral ties between the two countries.
He stated that the establishment of the BNC should be seen as a partnership that would bring further benefits not only to the ECOWAS sub-region but also to Africa as a whole.
According to him, Nigeria and Cote D’Ivoire have continued to enjoy a mutually beneficial relationship in promoting peace and development on the African continent, through increased trade and commercial activities between both countries and within the ECOWAS Sub-region.
“The signing of the Bi-National Commission framework agreement paved the way for the two countries to clearly define its priorities and goals toward achieving meaningful and sustainable economic, social and political relations.
“Nigeria and Cote D’Ivoire continue to enjoy a mutually beneficial relationship promoting peace and development on the African continent, through increased trade and commercial activities between both countries and within the ECOWAS Sub-region.
“The establishment of the Bi-National Commission should be seen as a partnership that will bring further benefits not only to the ECOWAS sub-region but also to Africa as a whole.’’
Sambo said that Nigeria and Cote D’Ivoire shared a long history of excellent relationship that predate ECOWAS as both countries were now important members of ECOWAS, African Union and the UN.
He also observed with delight that the two countries had played significant role at the sub-regional, and international levels.
The Vice President commended President Alhassan Outtara for bringing about sustainable peace and stability to Cote D’Ivoire.
“It is my firm hope and belief that the Ivoirian people will remain committed to the peace and reconciliation process that are already in place.
“It is important to note that only peace can pave the way for the much needed economic development in the country.’’
He reiterated the unwavering support of the Federal Government and the people of Nigeria to the Government and people of Cote D’Ivoire.
“I would like to appreciate the Government and People of Cote D’Ivoire for the peaceful co-existence of our nationals in each other’s country, especially the care extended to Nigerians living in Cote D’Ivoire.
“Nigerians are in return contributing to the overall economic growth and progress of your dear country.’’
While acknowledging the collective efforts that Nigeria and Cote D’Ivoire had continued to make in the desire to foster peace on the African continent, Sambo reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to this noble course.
He assured that the two countries would continue to play active roles at resolving the challenges in Guinea, Mali, Sudan and the Middle-East as well as the general stability of the ECOWAS Sub-region.
In his remark, the Prime Minister of Cote D’Ivoire, Mr Daniel Duncan, appreciated the good gesture Nigeria accorded his country, acknowledging that Nigeria was instrumental to the restoration of peace in Cote D’Ivoire.
While giving account of the robust economy of his country, Duncan said “Nigeria is the first African country my country relates to in this manner.’’