Dr. Dele Alake has urged for improved Nigeria-UAE trade relations in the mining sector, focusing on legalising gold trade and reducing illegal activities. A new economic forum is planned to strengthen ties further, with broad participation from UAE companies to enhance investment in Nigeria.
Dr. Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has advocated for stronger trade relations between Nigeria and the UAE, particularly in the mining sector. During a meeting with UAE Ambassador Salem Shaeed Al Shamsi, Alake highlighted the historical relationship spanning over 50 years and the potential for expanding trade in solid minerals. Alake pointed out that while gold trade exists between the two countries, much of it is illicit. He proposed collaborating to combat illegal gold trading and to devise a regulatory framework that would legitimise this trade to benefit both nations. He also noted Nigeria’s vast mineral wealth and the UAE’s role as a central hub in mineral commerce, emphasising the mutual advantages of a closer partnership. Ambassador Al Shamsi reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to enhancing its longstanding relations with Nigeria, referring to recent developments such as lifting visa restrictions and signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). He announced an upcoming Nigeria-UAE economic forum in Nigeria with participation from numerous major UAE companies to boost Foreign Direct Investments (FDI). Both nations agreed to form a technical committee aimed at tackling illegal mineral trade and promoting legitimate business practices.
The mining sector is crucial for both Nigeria and the UAE, with Nigeria possessing various valuable minerals and the UAE serving as a key trading hub. Over the last fifty years, the two countries have developed a significant bilateral relationship that can be further enhanced through strategic collaboration in legitimate mineral trade. Alake’s focus on combating illegal activities in the gold market and fostering legitimate trade underlines the importance of a structured regulatory approach.
The meeting between Dr. Alake and Ambassador Al Shamsi marks a pivotal step in solidifying Nigeria-UAE relations, especially in the mining sector. The proposed collaboration aims to legalise gold trading and promote investment opportunities, indicating a bright future for trade between the two nations.
Original Source: freedomonline.com.ng