Monday, July 25, 2016
ABUJA- President
Muhammadu Buhari, Monday, in Abuja said that Nigeria was now learning through
the way in the diversification of its economy.
Speaking when he
received a Special Envoy from the President of Islamic Republic of Iran at the
State House, Mohammad Javad Zarif, the president commended the Iranian
government for working to launch itself amongst the developing nations of the
world.
The president said his
government was working assiduously to ameliorate the challenges faced by the
Nigerian economy within a short period, saying he would tap from the
experiences of countries like Iran which had thrived in adversity.
He said that the Iranian
economy remained an inspiration for Nigeria in the deployment of technology to
harness and export gas, grow food for the populace and promote entrepreneurship
in education.
The President noted
that Nigeria had all the potentials for growing into a great economy through
more inclusive planning, consistency in government policies and commitment to
the realization of development targets.
“The progress made by
Iran within a short period of 30 years is really commendable. Within the
period, you have been able to harness gas flaring, and you are now exporting.
You have recorded strides in security, manufacturing, agriculture and
technology.
“You have also achieved
a lot in nuclear research. I must also congratulate you for successfully
negotiating with America and the European countries on the development of your
nuclear energy.
“In Nigeria, we are
learning. We are learning the hard way through hardship, and we are learning
very quickly on how to explore other sectors of the economy like gas, solid
minerals and agriculture for growth.
“We are grateful for
your support and cooperation in opening up the Nigerian economy for
diversification,'' he said.
In his remark, the
Iranian envoy who is also the Minister of Foreign Affairs, said the Iranian
government would support the ongoing restructuring of the Nigerian economy.
“We are very keen to
see a better and stronger relationship with Nigeria, which is the largest
country in Africa and a major global player,'' he said.
Zarif said he came into
Nigeria with a delegation of more than 70 members of the Iranian business
community who had already started discussions in investing in sectors like
banking, education, scholarship, agriculture, energy, tourism and technology
development.
SOURCE: VANGUARD.