In anticipation of the upcoming Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) summit scheduled for December 10, 2023, Nigeria and Benin Republic have committed to strengthening economic collaboration.
The pledge was made during a meeting between President Bola Tinubu and Beninoise President Patrice Talon at the State House in Abuja.
President Tinubu emphasized the need for cooperation for economic prosperity in West Africa, highlighting the historical and cultural ties between Nigeria and Benin Republic.
He acknowledged the importance of developing economic synergy between the two nations for mutual development.
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Talon, seeking Nigeria’s support in improving trade relations, expressed the urgency of enhancing integration between the countries.
He outlined Benin Republic’s national development plan, which includes increased collaboration with Nigeria, particularly in trade, free movement of people, and goods.
The Beninoise President suggested the establishment of an inter-ministerial technical committee to advance mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors.
President Talon assured that efforts would be made to address bilateral challenges, such as smuggling, and coordinate actions to protect each other’s interests during economic integration.
The leaders discussed the implementation of agreements to strengthen ties, reviewing ECOWAS’ investment program to reflect factors of the Nigerian economy.
Talon expressed readiness to sign an executive order to appoint members of the council, emphasizing the desire to make history together.
This meeting marks the second visit by President Talon to President Tinubu in six months.
The leaders had previously discussed efforts to restore democracy in West African countries affected by coups d’etat.
The next ECOWAS summit, scheduled for December 10 in Abuja, will provide an opportunity for regional leaders to address key issues affecting West Africa’s political and economic landscape.
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