By Donald Iorchir
Abuja
A renewed commitment by the Republic of Cuba to strengthen economic relations with Nigeria was made known in Abuja by the Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Carlos Treso Saso.
He reiterated this while on a courtesy visit to the President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode.
At the occasion he emphasized the need to galvanize resources for more joint economic activities in the health industry, medical tourism, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and sports business.
Cuba, he assured was also interested in the manufacture of critical vaccines in Nigeria, to tackle endemic ailments like Hepatitis, B and C, Meningitis, Lassa fever and diabetes as well as establishment of Cuban-Nigerian joint venture hospitals in Abuja
Accompanied by Ms. Leydis Bernal Suarez, Deputy Head of Mission, the Ambassador also expressed interest in developing a strategic relationship with the Abuja Chamber in these areas to exponentially improve commercial activities and enhance the balance of trade between Nigeria and Cuba.
In response, Prince Kayode thanked the envoy for the demonstration of genuine interest in improving the economic ties between Nigeria and Cuba.
“This is in line with the strategic plan of the Chamber to forge strong ties with international business community to develop joint ventures and enhance foreign direct investment”, he noted.
He urged the international community to work with Nigeria in all areas of businesses especially now that the environment is getting better and there is the market and a young as well as the dynamic workforce.
“The Chamber is also encouraging Public Private Partnerships (PPP). The government now realizes that the Organized Private Sector (OPS) and the public sector exists to advance the economy and the general good of the country hence the renewed and on-going effort at ease of doing business program which is improving and enabling business environment in Nigeria”, the President added.
