Speaker Abbas seeks stronger ties with South Korea on economy, technology

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, called for more bilateral cooperation and deals between Nigeria and South Korea, saying it would be mutually beneficial for both countries.

Speaker Abbas, while receiving the Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Kim Pankyu, in Abuja, noted that South Korea has set good examples in terms of politics, economy, and technology, adding that the Asian country stands to also benefit from a better relationship with Nigeria.

The Speaker, who said it was “indeed very gratifying to be with you,” welcomed the Korean Ambassador to Nigeria and expressed his hope that his deployment in Nigeria would be mutually beneficial to both countries.

While describing South Korea as a country that has been a good example of a developing country, Speaker Abbas urged the Asian country to seek stronger ties with Nigeria, especially at the parliamentary level.

“I want to implore you to use the opportunity given by the 10th Assembly to relate with the friendship groups,” he said, adding that “The House is very supportive of this engagement.”

The Speaker said Nigeria is willing to learn from South Korea on governance, economics, and technology, just as the Asian country is assured of Nigeria’s support at the international level. “We will be there for you. We will stand by you,” he said.

While the Speaker also said, “We want to do so much, particularly in the House, to improve the political and economic situation of our country,” he cited the example of China, which has designed policies and programs for Africa, especially Nigeria.

Earlier, Ambassador Pankyu said he came to Nigeria in March and has worked towards strengthening the bilateral relations between South Korea and Nigeria. He said this was in line with the plans of the Korean government, which is “trying to strengthen relationships with African countries.”

In terms of foreign investment and bilateral trade, the Korean Ambassador said trade from Nigeria to his country have increased by 55 per cent, while those from South Korea to Nigeria have risen by 91 per cent. According to him, more Korean companies are planning to invest in Nigeria.

Ambassador Pankyu said South Korea is considering security cooperation between both countries. He commended the National Assembly for setting up friendship groups for inter-parliamentary relations.

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