According to a statement signed on Thursday by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Buhari gave the indication at a joint press conference with President Marcela Rebelo de Sousa of Portugal.
The statement titled ‘President Buhari: Nigeria-Portugal relations set for new levels, as countries ready ten agreements, MoUs for signing,’ stated the agreements were meant to strengthen ties between both countries 46 years after the establishment of diplomatic relations.
Buhari told the press after a one-on-one meeting with his Portuguese counterpart and an enlarged meeting between delegations that in spite of the existing cordial relations between the two countries, there was a need for greater collaboration.
He revealed that as many as 10 agreements and Memoranda of Understanding are being prepared for signing during his State visit to the European country.
They include the Establishment of an Atlantic Research Centre; Air travel; Political Consultations; Diplomatic Training; Cultural Cooperation; Investment Promotion; Chambers of Commerce Cooperation; Women and Child Development; Youth and Sports Development and Digital Economy Cooperation.
According to him, ‘‘The world is at a crossroads. The decisions we take as leaders could make or break the world as we know it. We face existential challenges with climate change, food insecurity, conflict, health, and energy among others.
‘‘We look to Portugal as an influential country and partner to play an important role in helping to pull the world back from the brink.’’
President Buhari thanked the Portuguese leader for the role his government played during his tenure as President of the European Union, in securing EU and International Monetary Union financial support for Africa.
Highlighting that 2022 marks the 46th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the Nigerian leader said:
‘‘We are delighted that we can count Portugal as a valued and reliable friend and partner.
‘‘We share the same democratic values and look to increase and broaden cooperation in various fields at the bilateral and multilateral levels.’’
He also announced that there will be a Nigeria-Portugal Business and Investment Forum with the participation of over 80 representatives from Nigerian public and private sector companies, agencies and organizations.
