(http://fmi.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Theodore-Orji-300x201.jpg) Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State has pleaded with the Franch Consul General to Nigeria, Francois Sastourne to fashion out ways of making the acquisition of French visa easier for Abians seeking entry to France.
The Governor made the appeal at the Government House, Umuahia when he received Mr. Sastourne in audience who was in the State on a working visit.
He noted that most times, it was very difficult for citizens of the State wanting to go to France, to acquire the visa with ease, thus dissuading such applicants from travelling.
Orji however, cautioned the Consul General to be careful about doubtful visa applicants who might want to use the name of the Government to obtain visas and advised him to refer to the Government before issuing visas to such persons.
He explained that there are a lot of investment opportunities in Abia and requested the Consul General to discuss with relevant Ministries to find out areas of possible cooperation between France and Abia State.
According to him, Abia has potentials in education, agriculture, tourism and other areas and stated the readiness of his Government to accept any partnership and development on private public partnership (PPP) basis.
He maintained that security of any foreign investment in the State is assured, adding that Abia is peaceful and has conducive atmosphere for investment.
Earlier, the Consul General of France to Nigeria, Francois Sastourne who is visiting the State for the first time; said, he is in the State to explore ways of promoting cooperation between Abia State and France.
He stated that France was keen on partnering and assisting Abia in the areas of education, trade, tourism as well as cultural exchange, and pointed out that it was his country's intention to increase the number of Nigerian students studying in France.
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Federal Ministry of Information (FMI) Nigeria