Nigeria and the Kingdom of the Netherlands have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations across key sectors, including agriculture, trade and investment, energy transition and water management.

The pledge came during a meeting in Abuja between Dunoma Ahmed, Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Robert Zimmerman, Sahel Envoy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, alongside members of the Dutch delegation.

A statement released on Sunday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said both countries were seeking to advance shared economic and development priorities. 

The engagement provided a platform for extensive discussions on strengthening cooperation while addressing common regional and global challenges.

The meeting also reviewed the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and the Netherlands, which dates back to 1960, and explored ways to scale up collaboration in priority sectors critical to economic growth and sustainability.

Discussions extended beyond trade and investment to include youth empowerment, migration governance, maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, counter-terrorism efforts and enhanced multilateral cooperation.

Both parties emphasised the need for coordinated approaches to tackle insecurity and transnational threats, particularly within the West African sub-region. 

They also declared their commitment to a partnership based on mutual respect, equality and shared values.

Cultural diplomacy, knowledge and technology exchange, and private-sector collaboration were also highlighted as key drivers of inclusive growth and economic diversification.

The statement added that deeper engagement between businesses, institutions and civil society would further strengthen bilateral ties and support long-term development goals.

Source: Business Day
Image Credit: Ministry of Finance