China to Boast Trade, Deepen Collaboration Withn Nigeria via Cultural Exchange

China intends to leverage cultural exchange to enhance trade relations and foster deeper collaboration with Nigeria, according to the People's Republic of China's Consul General in Lagos, Ms. Yan Yuqing. She highlighted that language learning, especially Mandarin, plays a crucial role in achieving these goals.

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This year marks the 55th anniversary of our diplomatic relations. And I believe that we will have an even better and brighter future between China and Nigeria. So long-lasting friendship.

During a visit to Grace Schools in Lagos, Yuqing commended the interest shown by Nigerian children in learning Mandarin from an early age. She pledged to mobilize the Chinese business community in Nigeria to support schools in their efforts to use language as a tool for improving trade relationships between the two nations. This year marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria, and Yuqing expressed optimism for a brighter future.

Yuqing noted that Chinese President Xi Jinping's focus on Africa's development, particularly in industrialization, agricultural modernization, and talent development, provides opportunities for increased cooperation. She specifically pointed to advancements in technology transfer and vocational education as areas where a win-win partnership can be forged. Cultural exchange, as exemplified by the school visit, is seen as an effective method for boosting trade.

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So I think that in talent development we can do more, especially in technology transfer and also in vocational education. Yes, we can make a win-win cooperation and cultural exchange like what we are witnessing today is a good way to boost trade.

With globalization, Yuqing stressed the necessity for children to learn Mandarin early, noting that the language has been taught in Nigeria for nearly 16 years. She believes language can bridge cultural barriers and build friendships. She also mentioned the job market advantages of speaking Mandarin, citing an example where A-level Mandarin proficiency in England can lead to managerial positions.

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Well we have Chinese teachers, and also you know now, even if you have a degree you might not get a job. But if you say you can speak Mandarin, the job is yours. Because I’ve heard that in England just with A-level Mandarin you can get a managerial position.