Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Governor Alex Otti has expressed the willingness of his administration to partner Vietnam Republic in various areas of the economy to develop Abia State.
Otti spoke while receiving in audience, a delegation led by the Vietnamese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Bui Quoc Hung, who paid him a working visit at his Umuehim, Nvosi Country home.
According to Governor Otti, Abia State and Vietnam have many areas of partnership for mutual benefits.
He said: “We are very happy to have you in Abia. We will be very happy to work with you. I see a lot of areas where we can collaborate and work together.
“I see a whole lot of opportunities for us to partner. We will be pleased to work with you to improve our relationship in trade, commerce, manufacturing and agriculture,” Gov. Otti stated.
Otti said his Government had provided conducive environment for investors willing to invest in the state.
He directed the Honourable Commissioner for Industry to work with the Vietnamese Ambassador while the Government team should take them round the State to see things for themselves.
While thanking the Vietnamese Ambassador for the choice of Abia State for business partnership, Otti expressed optimism that with the possible partnership with Vietnam, some ailing industries in the state could be revived.
Speaking earlier, the Vietnamese Ambassador to Nigeria, Hung highlighted the vast economic opportunities in the state.
He identified agriculture, manufacturing, textiles, including crude oil and gas, as areas of interest for his country.
The Ambassador emphasised the commitment of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in fostering a strong bilateral relationship with Abia State to enhance import and export activities and create mutual benefits between Vietnam, Nigeria in general and Abia State in particular.
He said that he would use the few days he would be in Abia to visit certain sites such as National War Museum, Golden Guinea, Saclux Paint, Aba Textile Mill including Shoes and Garments Clusters in Umuahia and Aba.
Ambassador Hung also said he would hold meetings with Aba and Umuahia Chambers of Commerce to explore potential partnership opportunities between Vietnamese Government and her private sector with Abia State.
He lauded Governor Otti’s leadership, applauding his efforts in improving the economic standards of the people.
“We appreciate your leadership. We will like to congratulate you on your exemplary and focused leadership of the Abia State Government,” Mr. Hung concluded.
