President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia, marking the beginning of a significant two-nation diplomatic tour of the Caribbean and South America. Upon landing at Hewanorra International Airport, Tinubu was accorded a warm welcome with full military honors by Saint Lucia’s Governor-General, Cyril Charles, and Prime Minister, Philip Pierre.
The state visit officially kicks off on Sunday with courtesy calls on the governor-general and prime minister, setting the tone for a packed schedule of high-level engagements. On Monday, President Tinubu will deliver a keynote address at a special joint session of Saint Lucia’s Senate and House of Assembly, held at the prestigious William Jefferson Clinton Ballroom in Gros Islet.
The event promises to be a gathering of regional leaders, including heads of government from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), senior government officials, diplomats, and members of the Nigerian community in Saint Lucia. Tinubu will also share insights with Didacus Jules, OECS Director-General, on matters of regional importance.
Following his successful engagement in Saint Lucia, President Tinubu will proceed to Brazil, where he will participate in the 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro from July 6 to 7. At the invitation of Brazilian President Luiz Lula da Silva, Tinubu will attend as a ‘partner country’, a distinction that reflects Nigeria’s growing influence in global affairs.
As one of the African BRICS members, alongside South Africa, Egypt, and Ethiopia, Nigeria will play an active role in shaping the summit’s agenda. The 17th BRICS Summit will focus on “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,” with discussions centered on social, economic, and environmental development priorities.
This tour underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic ties and fostering cooperation with key regional partners. The outcomes of this tour are expected to have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s economic and strategic interests.
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