The Lagos State Government and the Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) have reaffirmed their commitment to a strategic partnership aimed at promoting cultural heritage.
Mr Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts and Culture, made this known in a statement issued on Tuesday in Lagos.
According to the statement, Aregbe spoke during a courtesy visit by senior Chinese officials to the ministry’s headquarters.
He said the collaboration would deepen ties between Lagos and China while creating new opportunities in heritage protection, cultural exchange, job creation, tourism initiatives, and travel policies.
“This ministry is passionate about the development and implementation of strategic plans to drive cultural growth, foster artistic and creative development, and showcase the rich cultural heritage and artistic expressions unique to Lagos State,” Aregbe said.
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He expressed satisfaction with China’s interest in several initiatives, particularly the 72-hour Lagos Cultural Weekend and the state’s broader cultural calendar.
Aregbe also acknowledged the contributions of the Chinese community in Lagos and pledged the government’s commitment to making the state a second home for them.
Zhang Xiaoqin, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of Guangxi People’s Congress, said China remained committed to programmes that would benefit Lagos residents, Nigerians, and the Chinese community.
The statement listed members of the Chinese delegation as including Consul General Yan Yuqing; Vice Director-General of the General Office of Guangxi People’s Congress, Lu Bo; Song Haijun, Deputy Director-General of Guangxi Foreign Affairs Office and Head of the Coordinating Group of Guangxi African Work Team; and Bin Zhengying, Deputy Director-General of Guangxi Public Security Department and Deputy Head of Personnel Management Group of Guangxi African Work Team, among others.
Directors and other top officials of the ministry were also present at the courtesy visit.
