Switzerland to strengthen bilateral relations with Nigeria
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Shettima received Cassis and his spouse, Paola Rodoni Cassis, at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, where they had a closed-door meeting.
By Salisu Sani-Idris
The Swiss government has pledged support to Nigeria in addressing insecurity in the North-East region, signalling deeper bilateral cooperation.
Switzerland’s Vice President, Ignazio Cassis, made the pledge on Tuesday in Abuja during talks with Vice-President Kashim Shettima.
Shettima received Cassis and his spouse, Paola Rodoni Cassis, at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, where they had a closed-door meeting.
Both countries agreed to strengthen bilateral relations across key sectors. Areas of focus include trade, economic cooperation, skills development, migration, security, and cultural exchange.
Briefing journalists, Cassis, who also serves as Switzerland’s Foreign Minister, said discussions centred on deepening relations and exploring a trade agreement.
“We are considering improving our bilateral relations and analysing opportunities for a free trade agreement with AfCFTA and Nigeria.
“Secondly, we are working together diplomatically to address conflicts in Nigeria’s North-East region.
“Thirdly, we are supporting vocational training, with Swiss companies helping young Nigerians gain skills for sustainable livelihoods,” Cassis said.
He said both nations also agreed to enhance cultural cooperation, including restitution of cultural materials.
“We cooperate on migration issues and meet annually to review all aspects of our partnership,” he said.
Cassis thanked Nigeria for its continued participation in the World Economic Forum in Davos.
He also congratulated Nigeria on the inauguration of its Nigeria House in Davos this year.
Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, said the talks built on longstanding relations dating back to 1961.
“Vice President Cassis expressed interest in a free trade agreement with Nigeria, which we welcome.
“There were also discussions on Swiss investments, with many firms already active, and further engagements planned in Lagos,” he said.
Tuggar disclosed that Switzerland agreed to return artefacts belonging to the Benin Kingdom in Edo.
“This forms part of efforts to strengthen cultural ties beyond economic cooperation.
“There was a general assurance to deepen relations, including the return of Benin bronzes from Switzerland,” Tuggar said.
(NAN)
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