International

China Calls on Developing Countries to Stand Up Against Bullies

Published

3 years ago

August 15, 2022

Ochuwa Ibrahim

China Calls on Developing Countries to Stand Up Against Bullies

By Michael Mike

China has called on developing countries all over the world to stand up against bullies.

Speaking at the weekend at the reception and opening ceremony of China International Press Communication Center (CIPCC) 2022 for over 70 journalists in Beijing invited by the China Public Diplomacy Association (CPDA) to familiarize with China, the Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Hua Chunying, lamented that recent visit of United States Speaker, Nancy Pelosi is an act of bully from America.

She noted that: “China’s development achievements over the past decades have been most impressive. To quote a poem, we have “been to the heavens for the moon and to the deep sea for the turtles”. Two female astronauts have traveled to space, a real-life version of Chang’e, a fabled Chinese goddess, flying to the moon. The high-speed rail network has shortened many long-distance travels across the nation into one-day trips. I doubt if the finest novelist could imagine ten or even five years ago the transformation taking place in China today.”

Chunying said. “Behind all these incredible achievements is an incredible political party — the Chinese Communist Party (CPC). Last year, we celebrated the centenary of the CPC. The CPC has grown from a small party with just over 50 members, to the world’s largest governing party with a 96-million-strong membership. Over the past century, the CPC has led the Chinese people to drive out the foreign invaders, end the fighting among warlords and the civil war, gain national independence, found a sovereign country, make foreign subjugation and hunger history, and build a moderately prosperous society in all respects. The Party is now leading the country on a new journey toward a modern socialist country. Every Chinese is filled with pride about what the country has achieved, and fully supports the CPC. In fact, the CPC, for years, has an approval rating of over 90 percent.”

She added that: “The CPC is a people’s party. It represents the fundamental interests of the greatest possible Chinese people, and has never represented the interests of a particular interest group, power bloc or privileged class. From day one, the CPC has made pursuing a happy life for the people its founding mission. It follows a people-centered philosophy, and puts the people’s interests, needs and satisfaction above everything else.

“The CPC is a vanguard party. It is keen to learn from past practices. It keeps abreast of the times by developing new theories and strategies based on new situations. It pursues self-reform to seek continuous self-improvement. And it sticks to principles and has flexibility under different circumstances, confronting problems head-on and finding solutions to make things work.

“The CPC is an open and inclusive party. It is ready to share, to learn from all advanced things and engage with all for mutual success and shared progress.

“In the online comment from a young Egyptian (by the name of Ismail Bashmori), he likened China to the first member of the impoverished family of developing nations to go to university. He called on developing countries to help and support China to keep climbing to the top, as China is the first non-Western country to even come close to reaching a status of `ultimate global importance.

“His comment touched many Chinese, me included. China has all along been a member of the big developing country family, standing with each other through thick and thin. We shall never forget that it is our brothers and sisters in Asia, Africa, and Latin America who helped restore the lawful seat of the People’s Republic of China at the United Nations. Today, China is on a better footing. It will do its best to help, so that we all can have a better life.”

She recalled that: “As President Xi Jinping noted, in the world today, some are faring very well whereas some others are still struggling; this is not a good thing. Only when people all over the world enjoy better lives can prosperity be sustained, security safeguarded and human rights assured. Based on this belief, China has proposed the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative, to promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. We hope to achieve common development through hard work. People in all countries are entitled to choose their own development paths, and deserve a better and happier life. Just as China believes that not a single Chinese should be left behind on the journey toward common prosperity, no country should be left behind in our common pursuit of greater development.

“Regrettably, some do not want to see this happen for people in other countries, especially the Chinese people. In recent years, the US and a few of its allies have gone out of their way to smear and bash China, using all means to suppress and contain China.

“But people of the world are clear-eyed. A recent `survey shows that 76 percent of young Africans see China as a positive influence on their life; the Arabic populations prefer China and China’s foreign policy is better received in the Middle East; countries in Asia also believe that China’s right to legitimately emerge as a major country should be respected.”

She said it was recently realized that all believed that developing countries are a key force in building a fairer and more balanced global order, and in promoting peace, security, equality and development, noting that they agreed that “unity and cooperation should be enhanced to build a better world that meets the needs and aspirations of the developing world. This shows that we developing countries have a common purpose, and our hearts are closely linked.”

She admitted that: “The world today still faces many risks and challenges, and we need to jointly respond with unity and cooperation. There is much unfairness and injustice, and we need to support each other in defending our interests. There is much bullying and hegemony in the media and propaganda, and we need to speak with one voice, louder and clearer.

She stressed that: “After decades of hard work, China has accomplished a lot in its development. But China remains the only major country yet to achieve complete reunification. And China still faces real threats to its sovereignty and territorial integrity, as seen from the recent visit of US House Speaker Pelosi to China’s Taiwan region. The Chinese government and people have every determination and capability to uphold sovereignty and territorial integrity. If even China cannot do this, what about other developing countries? If we do not hold the line now, who will be the next Iraq or Syria? As developing countries, we’ve all had the experience of being colonized and bullied. Therefore, we must stand together and support each other when those things we hold dear are under threat.”

China Calls on Developing Countries to Stand Up Against Bullies

International

Algeria Calls for Continued Development, Stronger Ties with Nigeria

Published

4 days ago

November 19, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Algeria Calls for Continued Development, Stronger Ties with Nigeria

By: Michael Mike

Algeria’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Hocine Mezoued has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to sustainable development and stronger ties with Nigeria.

He gave the commitment in Abuja at the commemoration of the 71st anniversary of the outbreak of the National Liberation Struggle and Algeria’s National Day celebration.

The event drew senior representatives of the Nigerian government, members of the diplomatic corps, legislators, and other distinguished guests.

In his address, Ambassador Mezoued paid homage to the more than five million Algerian martyrs who lost their lives during the 132-year anti-colonial struggle, noting that the November Revolution remains “an inexhaustible source of pride and patriotism” for the Algerian people.

He emphasized that Algeria’s victory in securing independence in 1962 laid the groundwork for a nation strongly focused on development. He said: “Since its independence, Algeria has implemented national strategies and major development projects that have yielded remarkable achievements in human, economic, social, and environmental spheres.”

The envoy while underlining the country’s economic strength, noted that Algeria is currently the third-largest economy in Africa, with a GDP estimated at around US$300 billion, and projections to reach US$400 billion by 2027, backed by positive macroeconomic indicators.

He stated that despite its economic ambitions, Algeria has maintained its social welfare commitments, claiming that citizens continue to enjoy free access to education and healthcare, along with government-supported efforts to ensure decent housing for all.

Mezoued’s message highlighted both the historical significance of Algeria’s struggle for independence and the nation’s forward-looking drive toward modernization and prosperity.

On his part, the Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas expressed the country’s commitment to deepening diplomatic and parliamentary cooperation with Algeria as both nations continue to strengthen their longstanding ties.

The Speaker, who was represented by the Chairman of the Nigeria–Algeria Parliamentary Friendship Group Committee, Hon. Abubakar Babazango, in goodwill message described the anniversary as a moment of deep significance for Algeria and the entire African continent. He paid tribute to the courage and resilience of the Algerian people, whose struggle for liberation, launched 71 years ago, remains “an enduring symbol of hope” for oppressed peoples worldwide.

He said: “This day reminds us of the unity and sacrifice of the Algerian people who rose with determination to reclaim their freedom and dignity.”

He highlighted the strong diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Algeria, noting that both countries share a history of solidarity and a common vision for peace, development, and prosperity in Africa. He emphasized the role of the Nigeria–Algeria Parliamentary Friendship Group in fostering collaboration across key sectors, including trade, education, energy, and cultural exchange.

He said: “As we mark this historic occasion, may the friendship between Nigeria and Algeria continue to grow in unity and progress.”

The event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, legislators, and other distinguished guests.

Algeria Calls for Continued Development, Stronger Ties with Nigeria

International

An Open China for a Shared Future

Published

1 week ago

November 14, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

An Open China for a Shared Future

By: Yu Dunhai

Not long ago, the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China was convened in Beijing. During the session, the document Recommendations of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China for Formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development was deliberated and adopted, charting the course for China’s development over the next five years.

The plenum called for steadily expanding institutional opening-up, safeguarding the multilateral trading system, promoting broader international economic flows, and advancing reform and development through opening-up, thereby creating broader space for China and the world to share development opportunities.

In early November, the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) was successfully held in Shanghai. As the first major economic and diplomatic event following the Fourth Plenary Session, this year’s CIIE not only demonstrated the vast potential of the Chinese market but also served as a platform for global partners, including Nigeria, to connect and collaborate.

Nigeria participated in the Expo a Guest Countryof Honor. During the event, the Hon.Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, attended and addressed the opening ceremony.Chinese Premier Li Qiang held a productive meeting with the Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and his delegation. Building on these high-level engagements, Nigeria’s presence was further highlighted at its national pavilion.

Showcasing the country’s economic achievements, investment potential, and high-quality products, the Nigeria Pavilion attracted considerable attention from Chinese buyers and investment institutions. Nigerian businesses used this platform to gain direct access to China’s vast market and enhance their brand visibility through exchanges with international exhibitors.Key Nigerian exports—such as agricultural products, processed foods, and creative industry goods—continued to be well-received by Chinese consumers, injecting new vitality into bilateral economic and trade relations.

This year, the CIIE upgraded its special exhibition zone for products from the world’s least developed countries, many of which are from Africa. This upgrade enabled enterprises and products from all 53 African countries that have diplomatic ties with China to fully benefit from zero-tariff treatment. More than 80 business associations from over 50 countries and regions participated as groups, underscoring the CIIE’s unique role in supporting global small and medium-sized enterprises. The Hongqiao International Economic Forum, held in tandem with the CIIE, focused for the first time on the themes of“economic resilience” and “sustainable agricultural development” in the Global South, further demonstrating China’s commitment to advancing hand in hand with developing countries.

Over the past five years, China’s economy has maintained steady growth amid a complex international environment. By the end of 2025, China’s total economic output is expected to reach around 140 trillion yuan (approximately USD 19.4 trillion), contributing about 30% to global economic growth. China has continued to promote technological innovation and green transformation while further expanding opening up, creating new opportunities for global cooperation.

Nigeria, as a major African economy with a young population and vast market potential, has seen its relations with China enter a fast track of development under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state. Bilateral trade has grown steadily, surpassing USD 20 billion in the first three quarters of 2025, a year-on-year increase of 32.56%. China has remained one of Nigeria’s top trading partners for many years. The two countries have achieved fruitful cooperation in energy, agriculture, manufacturing, infrastructure, and the digital economy, while also exploring new opportunities in green transformation and emerging industries.

The year 2026 will mark the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria. China is ready to take this opportunity to deepen the alignment of development strategies with Nigeria, effectively connecting China’s 15th Five-Year Plan with Nigeria’s “Renewed Hope” Agenda, expand practical cooperation across multiple fields, and support Nigeria’s industrial and agricultural modernization.

Today, the world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century. China cannot be separated from the world in achieving development, and the world also needs China for prosperity. No matter how the international landscape evolves, China’s determination to expand high-level opening up will remain unchanged; its resolve to share development opportunities with the world will remain unchanged; and its commitment to promoting open, inclusive, balanced, and win-win economic globalization will remain unchanged.

China will continue to advance high-level opening up, work together with Nigeria and other African countries to build a closer China-Africa community with a shared future, and jointly create a better future defined by openness, cooperation, and mutual benefit.
Yu Dunhai is Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria

An Open China for a Shared Future

International

China Shows Interest in Nigeria’s Music Industry

Published

2 weeks ago

November 10, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

China Shows Interest in Nigeria’s Music Industry

By: Michael Mike

China has shown interest in collaboration at building Nigeria’s music industry as a tool of advancing the existing cultural diplomacy between both countries.

Speaking at the final of the “China-Africa Good Partners – 2025 Chinese-English Singing Competition” held at the Nigeria-China Cultural Centre in Abuja, Counselor of the Chinese Embassy, Yang Jianxing while reaffirming his government’s commitment to advancing cultural diplomacy as a cornerstone of its foreign relations with Nigeria, said China was ready to use the power of music to strengthen mutual understanding and deepen people-to-people connections between the two nations.

He said: “Music transcends borders, and song is a bridge connecting hearts,” adding that: “Today’s competition is not merely a vocal contest but a dialogue between Chinese and African cultures, and a testament to friendship that transcends mountains and seas.”

He said over the past 54 years, China and Nigeria have nurtured a relationship built on equality, mutual respect, and shared development.

Yang said: “Since the establishment of diplomatic relations 54 years ago, China and Nigeria have remained good brothers who respect each other and treat each other as equals, and good partners who seek mutual benefit and win-win development.”

He noted that cultural diplomacy has become a central pillar of China’s engagement with Africa, complementing economic and political cooperation.

“Cultural exchange is a crucial link in promoting the steady and long-term development of bilateral relations,” he remarked. “This competition serves as a window into the harmonious interplay of our cultures and strengthens the belief that mutual appreciation can lead to lasting friendship.”

He further explained that the competition reflects the goals of the “People-to-People Exchange Partnership Action” proposed by President Xi Jinping during the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2024.

Yang said: “By allowing different languages to blend in melodies and different cultures to resonate through exchange,” stressing that “we are reinforcing the foundation of public goodwill that underpins the China-Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership.”

Addressing the participants, the Chinese diplomat lauded them as “ambassadors of cultural understanding” whose performances have strengthened the human bond between both nations.

He told the contestants that: “Each and every one of you is a winner. Your voices express love for life and friendship, allowing us to feel the joy of closer ties between our peoples.”

Also speaking at the event, the President of the China Alumni Association of Nigeria Muhammed Sulaiman commended the initiative for its role in advancing China-Nigeria relations through soft diplomacy.

He said: “This is not just a competition—it is a profound way of cultural exchange, Over the years, China and Nigeria have built a smooth and enduring relationship, and events like this help to strengthen those bonds.”

He encouraged future editions of the event to incorporate performances in Nigerian indigenous languages alongside Chinese and English songs, describing such inclusion as an opportunity to enhance cultural understanding.

Sulaiman said: “Perhaps one day, we will not only hear English and Chinese songs but also Nigerian languages,” he said. “That will tie us even closer together.”

He further praised the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria for providing a platform that consistently promotes mutual respect and cooperation between both nations.

He said: “This initiative shows the strength and unity that cultural diplomacy can foster,” he added. “It must continue to grow.”

The 2025 Chinese-English Singing Competition, is part of ongoing cultural initiatives supported by the Chinese Embassy and the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, is widely seen as a soft diplomacy effort aimed at deepening understanding between the peoples of both nations while showcasing the unifying power of art.

In the Chinese Category, Glory Livingston emerged as the overall winner, earning loud applause for her heartfelt rendition. James Augustine took second place, while Yang Xin, Shen Lili, and Zhu Xiang Yang jointly clinched the third position.

In the English Category, Zhang Ji won the top prize for his outstanding vocal performance. Lu Yongbin and Wang Jiayi secured second place, while Liuyiming, Ekpety Edima, and Igwe Okezie shared the third-place spot.

The winners were presented with awards and certificates in recognition of their artistry and contribution to promoting cultural understanding between China and Nigeria.

The event closed with a group performance that brought all finalists together on stage—symbolizing, in the words of Counselor Yang, “the harmony of two peoples united by song, friendship, and shared aspiration.”

The event was attended by diplomats, cultural officials, and art enthusiasts.

China Shows Interest in Nigeria’s Music Industry