Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has commended the bilateral relations between Nigeria and China pointing out that it is profound and enduring relationship that has grown significantly over the years with both nation’s working together to pursue common interests in addressing common challenges.
The Minister made the commendation during the 97th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) at Chinese Embassy, Abuja.
According to a statement by Ministry of Defence Director of Information and Public Relations, Henshaw Ogubike, Badaru commended the PLA’s enduring resilience, strength, discipline, and dedication, which have transformed into a formidable force of safeguarding China’s sovereignty and development.
He said: “In the realm of defence and security, our cooperation has been instrumental in fostering mutual understanding and enhancing our collective capacity to tackle regional and global threats.”
Badaru also emphasized the robust partnership particularly in defence and military cooperation in areas of experience/ knowledge sharing and training/ technology transfers saying they have been a cornerstone of both nations’ shared efforts to build a stronger and more capable military institution.
He highlighted the significant milestone in the history of the People’s Republic of China and praised the PLA’s evolution into a modern and technologically advanced military force.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening the bonds of friendship and cooperation, particularly in defence and military cooperation, and called for collective action to address contemporary hybrid challenges.
The Minister extended his heartfelt congratulations to the PLA on its significant anniversary and expressed gratitude for the friendship gesture.