On September 28, Ambassador Xu Jianguo hosted the National Day reception celebrating the 60th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China at Sheraton Hotel, Abuja.
The Senate President, David Mark, the deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, the Deputy Speaker, Bayero Nafada were present as the guests of honour.
In his remarks, Ambassador Xu lauded the Sino-Nigerian relations, saying, “the political mutual trust and the economic ties of the two countries are both developing robustly.” He added that he “look forward to a stronger strategic partnership between China and Nigeria.”
Senator Mark conveyed President Yar’Adua’s congratulations to the Chinese government and people for the National Day. He agreed, in his responding address, that China and Nigeria enjoyed good friendship and it was necessary for the two countries to cooperate for further development.
The reception was well attended by over 600 people. Guests were impressed when the Nigerian chorus “Capital Voice” performed the National Anthems of the two countries in Chinese and English respectively. The event was very festive with Chinese music background and a photo/projector exhibition of China achievements.