Cuban Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Carlos Saso, said his country would strengthen economic relations with Nigeria to boost trade between both countries.
Saso said this when he visited Mr Adetokunbo Kayode, the President of Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, on Monday in Abuja.
Media and Protocol Officer of the chamber, Mr Gena Lubem, said in a statement that the ambassador stressed the need to galvanize resources for more joint economic activities between the countries.
He said that Cuba would explore more relations with Nigeria in the health industry, agriculture and sports.
According to him, Cuba is interested in manufacturing critical vaccines in Nigeria to tackle endemic ailments like Hepatitis B and C, Meningitis, Lassa fever and Diabetes.
He added that the country was also interested in the establishment of Cuban-Nigerian joint venture hospitals in Abuja.
Saso expressed interest in developing a strategic relationship with the Abuja Chamber in these areas to improve commercial activities and enhance the balance of trade between the two countries.
Receiving the envoy, Kayode commended him for demonstrating genuine interest in improving the economic ties between Nigeria and Cuba.
“This is in line with the strategic plan of the chamber to forge strong ties with the international business community to develop joint ventures and enhance foreign direct investment,” he said.
He urged the international community to work with Nigeria in all areas of business, especially now that the business environment was getting better.
“The chamber is also encouraging Public-Private-Partnerships (PPP).
“The government now realises that the Organized Private Sector (OPS) and the public sector exist to advance the economy and the general good of the country.
“The bodies will also advance the renewed and on-going efforts at ease of doing business programme which is improving the business environment in Nigeria,” Kayode said.
