ABUJA, Nigeria – August 21, 2024.
Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for the strengthening of cooperation between Nigeria and Tanzania, emphasizing the importance of regional integration and collaborative efforts to achieve continental growth and unity.
He made these remarks on Tuesday during a meeting with former Tanzanian President, Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Highlighting the historic ties between the two nations, Vice President Shettima noted that both countries have long-standing relationships, particularly as frontline states in the fight against apartheid and colonialism. He stressed the need to build on this shared history to foster stronger economic and social connections, especially within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“Tanzania is one of Africa’s success stories,” Shettima said, praising the country’s leadership.
“From Julius Nyerere to Samia Suluhu Hassan, Tanzania has been blessed with exceptional leaders.
The nation stands as a beacon of hope and stability in East Africa.
”The Vice President pointed out that with the discovery of significant gas reserves, Tanzania is on a path to rapid development, which presents opportunities for deeper cooperation between the two nations.
“If key African nations like Nigeria and Tanzania succeed, the entire continent will benefit,” he added.
Shettima also commended the Tanzanian government for its support of Nigerian businesses operating within its borders, citing the successful operations of companies like United Bank for Africa, Guarantee Trust Bank, and Dangote Group. He emphasized the potential for increased trade and investment between the two countries, which would further solidify their economic ties.In response, former President Kikwete expressed Tanzania’s readiness to strengthen its business and diplomatic relations with Nigeria.
He acknowledged the importance of the friendship between the two nations and reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to deepening these ties.
“We value the friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and Tanzania and are committed to strengthening it further,” Kikwete stated.
Kikwete also recognized the Nigerian National Defence College’s role in training Tanzanian military personnel, noting that this collaboration is a key component of the two countries’ defence and diplomatic relations. He expressed optimism for continued and expanded partnerships in these areas.
Both leaders agreed on the necessity of revisiting and updating existing bilateral agreements to reflect the current realities and to scale up their relations in the spirit of African solidarity.
ENDS
