Nigeria, Benin examine impact of global financial crisis

Abuja, 10 June-(ANA)-Benin's President Boni Yayi and his Nigerian counterpart President Umaru Yar'Adua's are looking into ways to mitigate the impact of the global financial crisis on their countries.

Both leaders told journalists at a joint news conference in Abuja said they had "discussed the issues of bi-national interests, in particular the effects of the global financial crisis on the two countries."

The Nigerian president said both countries agreed to convene a bi-national commission which would examine the issue and recommend measures to tackle it.

It is widely believed that the economy of Benin is largely dependent on Nigeria, its eastern neighbour.

Nigeria imports rice, vegetable oil, used vehicles and clothes from Benin, which in turn imports mostly basic household goods and beverages from Nigeria.(ANA)

FA/ANA/10 June 2009---