- Safiu Kehinde
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has celebrated with India over the country’s independence anniversary, stressing that Nigeria is prepared to explore new opportunities for deeper cooperation with India toward achieving shared priorities.
This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, the spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
As contained in the statement, Tuggar in a congratulatory message to his Indian counterpart, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, described the anniversary as a reminder of the extraordinary determination, sacrifice and vision of Indian people in shaping their destiny as a sovereign nation.
The Minister acknowledged the country’s shared value and multifaceted partnership with Nigeria.
“As Nigeria joins India in commemorating this milestone, we recognise the shared values of democracy, respect for sovereignty and commitment to international peace that unites our countries.
“Over the decades, Nigeria and India have built a strong and multifaceted partnership, underpinned by vibrant trade relations, educational cooperation, defence ties and cultural exchanges.
“Both nations continue to collaborate within the Commonwealth of Nations, the United Nations and the G77, advancing causes that promote global stability and sustainable development,” Tuggar was quoted as saying.
“On this auspicious occasion, Nigeria reaffirms its readiness to deepen these historic bonds, explore new opportunities for cooperation and work together with India in addressing shared global priorities,” the statement added.
The minister further congratulated the government and people of India, wishing them continued unity, prosperity and progress.