The Vice President Kashim Shettima, has announced that a three-day visit by his Colombian counterpart, Francia Márquez, will mark the beginning of a new chapter in diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Márquez, accompanied by her spouse, Rafael Yerney Pinillo Ocoró, and a delegation of ministers and business leaders, arrived in Abuja on Saturday for the official visit.
Speaking at a gala dinner hosted in her honour, Mr Shettima described the visit as proof that Nigeria and Colombia are set to enter a new era of “fraternal union,” fostering deeper political cooperation and economic ventures.
“This is why this historic visit and tomorrow’s engagements will be the gateway to a new chapter,” he stated.
“More than ever, Nigeria is inspired to plant the seeds of trust, water them with dialogue, and nurture them into fruits of prosperity.”
Mr Shettima highlighted that despite the geographic distance, the two nations have been bound by shared humanity for over 51 years of diplomatic relations.
He also conveyed the goodwill of President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian people, stating that the bilateral engagements are rooted in a shared interest in the destiny of both nations.
In her response, Vice President Márquez described her visit as strategic and historic, emphasising the shared heritage and values between the two countries.
As a woman of African descent, she said her trip aims to strengthen ties in areas such as social justice, peace, tourism, health, culture, and education.
She also pledged that Colombia would leverage its position in South America to improve trade relations with Africa and enhance diplomatic ties with Nigeria.
Also see: NGX Plummets: Nigerian Stocks Lose N439bn in Value
Márquez also took the opportunity to convey the condolences of the President of Colombia to the Nigerian government and people on the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Earlier, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Vice President, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, welcomed the Colombian delegation and highlighted the potential for both countries to positively impact their economies by harnessing their unique shared values.
The gala dinner was attended by ministers and top government officials from both nations, celebrating the rich cultures of Nigeria and Colombia.
