The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Yu Dunhai, has reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting regional integration and governance reforms in West Africa.
Yu made the pledge during a meeting with the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Touray, according to a statement issued by the Chinese Embassy in Abuja on Thursday.
He praised ECOWAS for its contributions over the past 50 years, noting the bloc’s leadership in strengthening democratic governance, promoting regional stability, and advancing economic integration. Yu described ECOWAS as “the most influential sub-regional bloc in Africa.”
The ambassador highlighted China’s longstanding partnership with ECOWAS as a model of South–South cooperation, citing the China-funded ECOWAS headquarters as a flagship project symbolising the deepening collaboration between both sides.
Yu noted that China’s newly outlined development framework — the Recommendations of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China for Formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan — reinforces Beijing’s commitment to shared global development. He added that China is prepared to fast-track the implementation of zero-tariff measures for African countries, a policy he said would open fresh economic opportunities for West African nations.
In his response, Touray expressed appreciation for China’s consistent support, especially in areas of capacity-building and institutional development. He commended China’s progress in national development and reiterated ECOWAS’ support for the four global initiatives proposed by Beijing.
Touray said ECOWAS is eager to deepen cooperation and open a new chapter in its relations with China.
Both sides exchanged gifts at the meeting: the Chinese delegation presented a China-made official vehicle to Touray for use in his duties, while the ECOWAS President gifted an African artwork to symbolise friendship and mutual respect.