Namibia and China strengthen ties during high-level talks

Swakopmund, Namibia – President Nangolo Mbumba hosted Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Swakopmund during a meeting aimed at reinforcing the long-standing partnership between the two nations. The talks focused on advancing Namibia and China’s Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and exploring new avenues for cooperation in key development areas.

Speaking during the engagement, President Mbumba reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to strengthening ties with China, particularly in energy, infrastructure, education, and tourism. He emphasised Namibia’s ambition to collaborate on green energy initiatives, including green hydrogen, solar, wind, and nuclear energy, to add value to the country’s uranium resources for peaceful purposes.

The President highlighted Namibia’s plans to partner with China on projects involving smart cities, 5G technology, and other digitalisation platforms to enhance urban security, crime prevention, and traffic management. Proposals for these initiatives have already been submitted to China.

President Mbumba also underscored Namibia’s focus on attracting Chinese tourists, one of the world’s fastest-growing travel markets. Efforts are underway to improve travel arrangements between the two countries, and the government is ready to resume plans for upgrading and constructing an international airport to position Namibia as a world-class tourism destination.

The President expressed gratitude for China’s support in various areas. Discussions are progressing on building 1,500 housing units for police officers to improve living conditions for the country’s security forces.

Regarding the drought crisis, President Mbumba acknowledged China’s N$50 million pledge, with food shipments expected to arrive in Namibia this month. In addition, 14 industrial boreholes will be drilled to combat water shortages in drought-affected areas.

Education and cultural cooperation also featured prominently. The President commended China for constructing four schools in the Zambezi and Kavango West regions, which include hostel facilities for over 1,300 learners. He also highlighted the establishment of a Confucius Institute at the University of Namibia to promote cultural exchange and socio-economic collaboration.

President Mbumba highlighted the Husab desalination plant as a significant project under the Belt and Road Initiative. The N$3 billion joint venture between Namwater and China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN) is expected to produce 20 million tons of water annually, addressing water shortages in central and western Namibia.

The mining sector also received attention, with Chinese investments through Rossing Uranium and Swakopmund Uranium playing a vital role in boosting Namibia’s economy and employing hundreds of Namibians. The President further reiterated Namibia’s unwavering support for China’s One-China Policy and its global initiatives, including the Global Development Initiative (GDI) and the Global Security Initiative (GSI). He praised the principles of mutual respect, solidarity, and cooperation that underpin Namibia-China relations.

President Mbumba thanked Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his delegation for their visit, expressing optimism about future cooperation between the two nations.

The meeting on 6 January 2024 underscores Namibia’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with China to achieve shared prosperity and sustainable development for both nations.