The German President, Mr. Joachim Gauck on Monday pledged that his country will help Nigeria to fight terrorism with technology during his visit to the Lagos state governor, Akinwunmi Ambode.
Gauck said the purpose of his visit to the country was to strengthen the cordial relationship between the two countries and to forge additional trade ties.
Speaking through an interpreter, Gauck said he was willing to share his country’s experiences in the field of science and technology, especially in the areas of capacity building, expressing confidence in steps being taken by the present government in the country to address the nation’s challenges.
“I am delighted to be here in Lagos and we in Germany and in Europe are more than aware of the importance of this city as a centre of business, of political development, of creativity and intellectively in the art of West Africa. At the same time I am delighted to be here in Lagos on my very first visit to Nigeria. I am happy to learn more and hear more about the successes of this country and the problems it has to tackle.
“My visit is meant to underline the friendly close ties existing between Germany and Nigeria. We have great interest in the area of trade. We in Germany are ready to share our experiences in those areas where you think they might prove helpful or necessary and we are happy to share the experiences we have acquired in fostering security and fostering social security.
“We are happy to share the knowledge we have acquired in the field of science and technology and cooperate with you and we are also happy to the knowledge we have when it comes to bringing about a fruitful cooperation between the business communities to bring about benefit for all,” he said.
According to him, “That is all we want to talk about and look at the potentials on these subjects and other matters. I am happy not only to get an opportunity to meet the representatives of the business community and to get to know more about the strength of assisting this country in those areas but also to have the opportunity to learn more about the culture in diversity that this country has to offer.
“I refer to business delegation that is accompanying me on this visit. Amongst them you have experienced personalities, people who have been here for quite a while and have acquired crucial beneficial experiences in doing business here on the ground. At the same time we also want to be of assistance when it comes to providing training; we believe that the German model in the area of training can be adopted here.”
Speaking, Ambode told the German president that his administration had instituted security and legal reforms to ensure a thriving business environment.
He said his administration was ready to explore the common interests between the state and Frankfurt, which is also Germany’s financial capital.
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