Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its longstanding diplomatic ties with the Republic of Cuba, pledging to deepen cooperation in key sectors while sustaining collaboration on regional and multilateral issues.
In a statement issued by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye gave the assurance during a meeting with the Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Miriam Morales Palmero, in Abuja.
The meeting reviewed the state of Nigeria-Cuba relations and explored opportunities to expand cooperation in education, healthcare, biotechnology, agriculture and food security.
Congratulating Ambassador Enikanolaiye on his appointment, Ambassador Palmero reaffirmed Cuba’s commitment to broadening its historic partnership with Nigeria.
She briefed the Minister on ongoing bilateral initiatives, including the implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding on Education and efforts to conclude negotiations on an agreement covering Cuba’s internationally recognised Food and Nutrition Programme.
The Cuban Envoy also highlighted ongoing discussions on collaboration in vaccine production and biotechnology through partnerships involving Nigerian private sector investors.
On multilateral issues, Ambassador Palmero expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s consistent support for the United Nations General Assembly resolution calling for an end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba.
She also outlined the humanitarian and economic challenges facing Cuba and appealed for Nigeria’s continued backing within the United Nations system.
Responding, Ambassador Enikanolaiye reaffirmed Nigeria’s longstanding friendship with Cuba and expressed sympathy over the humanitarian situation confronting the Cuban people.
“Differences between states should be resolved through dialogue, mutual respect, diplomacy and adherence to the principles of the Charter of the United Nations,” the Minister said.
He reiterated Nigeria’s continued support for the United Nations General Assembly resolution calling for the lifting of the embargo on Cuba.
Ambassador Enikanolaiye said that “Nigeria’s position remains consistent with that of the African Union and its enduring commitment to peaceful coexistence, respect for national sovereignty and multilateral cooperation.”
The Minister also welcomed the ongoing bilateral engagements in education, healthcare and agriculture, expressing confidence that both countries would continue to strengthen technical cooperation for their mutual benefit.
