ABUJA — Nigeria and Thailand are seeking to broaden their economic relationship beyond traditional trade in crude oil and rice, with both countries exploring new opportunities in technology, agriculture, renewable energy and commerce.

Vice President Kashim Shettima said Nigeria needed to review its relationship with Thailand at a strategic level rather than limiting cooperation to existing commercial transactions.

Shettima spoke during a meeting with Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow at the Presidential Villa.

He said Nigeria’s large consumer market, youthful population and natural resources created opportunities for Thai businesses and investors.

Agriculture emerged as one of the key areas of potential cooperation, particularly given Thailand’s experience with agricultural technology and value-chain development.

Nigeria is also seeking greater collaboration in information and communications technology, renewable energy and solid minerals.

Thai officials have proposed a Thailand-Africa Initiative designed to strengthen economic and people-to-people ties between Thailand and African countries.

The proposed framework is expected to support greater cooperation in agriculture and other areas where Thailand has technical and commercial expertise.

The discussions follow the signing of a technical-cooperation memorandum of understanding between Nigeria and Thailand.

The agreement provides a framework for collaboration in skills development, agriculture, technology, innovation and other areas considered important to economic development.

The renewed engagement comes as Nigeria seeks to attract more foreign investment and technical partnerships while diversifying its economy.

For Thailand, deeper engagement with Nigeria could provide greater access to one of Africa’s largest markets and strengthen its economic presence on the continent.