Nigeria, Thailand Seek Deeper Ties in Agriculture, Technology, Renewable Energy

Nigeria and Thailand have agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in technology, agriculture, commerce and renewable energy, among other areas of strategic interest.

The commitment was reached during a meeting between Vice-President Kashim Shettima and a Thai delegation led by the country’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Wednesday.

Nigeria is seeking a review of existing partnerships with Thailand to take advantage of the Asian country’s expertise in deploying intermediate technology, particularly in agriculture and related sectors.

Thailand, meanwhile, proposed a Thailand-Africa Initiative aimed at strengthening people-to-people relations, economic ties and cooperation with key African countries, with agriculture identified as a major area of focus.

Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Shettima acknowledged the cordial relationship between Nigeria and Thailand, but said the partnership should move beyond traditional areas of trade.

“I believe that our relationship should go beyond transactions in crude oil, rice production, and so on.

So, there is a need for us to review our bilateral relationship at a strategic level,” the Vice-President said.

He described Nigeria as a large market with significant opportunities for investment and partnership in agriculture, information and communications technology, renewable energy and solid minerals.

Shettima also highlighted Nigeria’s young population and workforce as key advantages for investors seeking to expand their presence in the country.

The discussions are
expected to provide a framework for expanding economic cooperation and creating new opportunities for businesses and investors from both countries.