Godsent Ogbebor
ECOWAS Welcomes China’s Push for Zero-Tariff Trade
The ECOWAS Commission has welcomed China’s decision to accelerate zero-tariff measures for African countries, describing the move as a boost to regional trade and a step toward deeper economic cooperation.
The reassurance came after a meeting in Abuja on Thursday between the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Yu Dunhai, and the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray.
During the meeting, Ambassador Yu highlighted China’s long relationship with the sub-regional bloc and commended ECOWAS for its contributions to peace, integration, and democratic stability over the years.
He noted that China’s current development plan places emphasis on expanding opportunities for countries around the world, and the zero-tariff initiative forms part of that commitment.
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Yu also said China values its partnership with ECOWAS, pointing to the headquarters it built for the organisation as a symbol of the enduring cooperation between both sides. He later handed over a China-made official vehicle to the ECOWAS President.
In his remarks, Dr. Touray thanked China for its steady support and said the bloc remains open to stronger collaboration that can help drive regional growth.
He commended China’s development achievements and expressed support for the global initiatives proposed by the Chinese government.
Touray added that ECOWAS is prepared to deepen its ties with Beijing and explore new areas of partnership that can benefit West Africa.
