Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State on Tuesday received members of the Movement of the Enterprises of France (MEDEF), led by its Chairman, Perre Gattaz, on a courtesy visit, where he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving economic bi-lateral relations hitherto in existence between Nigeria and France.
The Governor, who received the envoy, accompanied by the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Denys Gauer, in his office in Alausa, Ikeja, said the visit of the team was so important to him because of the realization that both countries share many things in common.
He said there were several economic opportunities that could be mutually beneficial to both countries, adding that language and cultural differences must not be allowed to hamper the relationship.
“Your visit at this period is also important, because of the fact that our country and your country, France, share some traits in common, which I believe would further enhance the economic growth and development of the two countries. Your presence here signifies a paradigm shift”, Ambode said.
Governor Ambode reaffirmed his commitment to create enabling environment for the business to thrive and improve on the ease of doing business in the state.
He said that to achieve this,, his administration is doing so much on security in its effort at building a safer Lagos and make it habitable and investor friendly for the host of investors willing to come to the state, while also embarking on security and judicial reforms.
“Our administration places so much importance on security, all in an effort to have a safer Lagos, where investors would come and do business unmolested and in a more comfortable place. Just want to let you know that Lagos is a place you can trade,” he said.
To achieve the set out objectives, Governor Ambode said an Office of the Overseas Affairs and Investment was established, whose primary assignment will be to relate with foreign investors and attract new businesses into the state.
“We welcome investors and those coming in few weeks, hence our resolve to establish an Office Overseas Affairs and Investments, whose primary assignment will be to relate with foreign investors and attract new businesses into the state, thus increasing our GDP. We would like to have more and larger investors because of our aim to create jobs and make life more comfortable for our people. Therefore, your intention of coming to invest in our state is welcomed”, Ambode said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the MEDEF, Perre Gattaz, said he led the team to Lagos to discuss areas of business partnership in the country and especially Lagos state.
He said aside visiting Abuja, the team has been to Eko Atlantic City and many other trade zones to see how they can partner with Lagos, adding that it would be of great advantage if the Governor can identify areas of possible collaboration.
Gattaz also expressed readiness to link with Nigeria and particularly Lagos on energy, Agriculture, transportation, food production and economy.
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