President Goodluck Jonathan says his administration will continue to actively combat the menace of terrorism in partnership with all peace-loving countries of the world.
Speaking at a meeting with President Shimon Peres of Israel, President Jonathan said Nigeria will welcome enhanced cooperation and assistance from Israel for its on-going efforts to end terrorist attacks and incursions in parts of the country.
President Jonathan also called for greater collaboration between them in other sectors, saying his administration will also welcome the deployment of Israel’s renowned expertise in furtherance of Nigeria’s agenda for national transformation in areas such as healthcare, agriculture, electric power supply and the management of water resources.
He assured President Peres that his administration will continue to encourage the expansion of trade, economic and cultural relations between Nigeria and Israel, adding that the signing of a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between them will undoubtedly boost such relations.
In his remarks at the meeting, President Peres said he was delighted and privileged to have had the opportunity of hosting “the first Nigerian president to visit the state of Israel”.
The BASA was later signed on Nigeria’s behalf by the Minister of State (foreign affairs), Prof. Viola Onwuliri.