Nigeria to deepen economic, security, people to people exchanges with Russia

…As Nigeria, Russia mark 65 years of diplomatic relations

…Exchange congratulatory messages

From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja

The Federal Government, has said it looked forward to deepening collaboration in economy, security and increased people-to-people exchanges with the Russian Federation.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, stated this in a congratulatory message sent to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Sergey Lavrov, on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and Nigeria.

Tuggar, on behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria, conveyed warm congratulations to Lavrov and through him, to the Government and people of the Russian Federation, on the historic occasion.

Tuggar said: “As we celebrate this milestone, Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to strengthening partnership in a manner that advances the prosperity of our peoples and contributes to a more just and equitable international order.

“Since the establishment of ties on 25th November, 1960, Nigeria and Russia have maintained a relationship characterized by mutual respect, constructive dialogue and shared aspirations for global peace, stability and development. Over the decades, our cooperation has expanded across strategic sectors including Defence, Education, Energy, Science and Technology, Space Cooperation, Trade, and Cultural Exchange.”

Tuggar also told his Russian counterpart that he looked forward to deepening collaboration in economy, security and increased people-to-people exchanges.

“Please accept the assurances of my highest consideration,” Tuggar stated.

On his part, Lavrov, in his congratulatory message issued in Moscow, Russia, said the Russian Federation noted with satisfaction, the high level of cooperation between the country and Nigeria, which is based on the principles of mutual respect, trust and the closeness of our positions across a broad range of regional and international issues.

The Russian Foreign Minister also said the Russian Federation remained committed to the steady development and maintenance of an active and substantive political dialogue, as well as practical collaboration in the trade, economic and humanitarian spheres, in the interests of the peoples of our countries and in the support of sustainable peace and development on the African continent.

“I wish you good health and every success, and to the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria – well-being and prosperity,” Lavrov said.