Lagos govt, China strengthen ties to boost cultural heritage

The Lagos State Government and the government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) have reaffirmed their commitment to a strategic partnership  in the promotion of cultural heritage.

Mr Idris Aregbe, the Special Adviser to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts and Culture, made the remark in a statement he issued in Lagos on Tuesday.

The statement said that Aregbe spoke during a courtesy visit by senior Chinese officials to the ministry’s headquarters in Lagos.

Aregbe said the partnership would strengthen ties between Lagos and China while opening new opportunities in heritage protection, cultural heritage, 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” he said.

He expressed satisfaction at China’s interests in several initiatives, particularly the 72-hour Lagos Cultural Weekend and the broader cultural calendar of the state.

Aregbe acknowledged the contributions of the Chinese community in the state and pledged the commitment of the administration to make Lagos the second home for the Chinese.

Zhang Xiaoqin, the Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of Guangxi People’s Congress, said that China was committed to programmes that would be beneficial to Lagos residents, as well as other Nigerians and the Chinese.

The statement noted that the Chinese delegation included the Consul General, Yan Yuqing; Vice Director-General of the General Office of Guangxi People’s Congress, Lu Bo.

Also, Song Haijun, the Deputy Director-General of Guangxi Foreign Affairs Office and Head of the Coordinating Group of Guangxi African Work Team.

Bin Zhengying, the Deputy Director-General of Guangxi Public Security Department and Deputy Head of Personnel Management Group of Guangxi African Work Team, among others, was also in the delegation.

The courtesy visit was also attended by Directors and other top officials in the ministry.