German President Joachim Gauck Visits Ambode (Photos)

German President, Mr. Joachim Gauck in the late hours of Monday visited Lagos State Governor Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, saying his country will help the country with technical know- how to successfully fight terrorism. Gauck who spoke through an interpreter stated that the purpose of his visit to the country was to strengthen the cordial relationship between the two countries and to forge additional trade ties. He expressed his willingness to share his country’s experiences in the field of science and technology, especially in the areas of capacity building. He expressed confidence in steps being taken by the present government in the country to address the nation’s challenges. “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 community to bring about benefit for all. He said the Germans appreciated the strides recorded by the Nigerian government over the years and were desirous at partnering with it. “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 the 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.” Responding, Lagos State Governor Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode told the German president that his administration had instituted security and legal reforms to ensure a thriving business environment. The governor, who expressed his administration’s willingness to explore the common interests between the state and Frankfurt, which is also Germany’s financial capital, said he was optimistic that the visit of the German leader would initiate greater economic ties for both. The German President’s who is visiting Nigeria for the first time, is scheduled to meet with President Muhammadu Buhari later in the week to discuss other crucial areas of partnership between the two nations.