Namibia, India reaffirm growing bilateral ties

WINDHOEK, 27 JAN (NAMPA) - Namibia and India have reaffirmed their longstanding bilateral relations during India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations held on Monday evening.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, Deputy Minister Janelly Matundu said the occasion honoured India’s Constitution and its foundational values of democracy, sovereignty and unity.
She described India as a source of global inspiration, citing its ethic of hard work, service and friendship. Matundu said Namibia and India share historic ties rooted in solidarity during Namibia’s struggle for independence, which have since evolved into strong political cooperation and collaboration across sectors such as trade, education, ICT, health, defence and capacity building.
She said bilateral relations continue to deepen, underpinned by mutual trust and South–South cooperation.
Matundu highlighted recent milestones, including high-level engagements and the state visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Namibia last year, during which several memoranda of understanding were signed.
Among the tangible outcomes of cooperation, she highlighted, is the success of the 2022 cheetah translocation agreement, under which the Namibian-origin cheetah population in India has grown from eight to 19 in less than four years.
Matundu also welcomed India’s donation of 1 000 tonnes each of rice and maize to support Namibia’s drought relief efforts, describing the gesture as a testament to enduring friendship. She further noted the conclusion of the fifth Namibia–India Foreign Office Consultations held in New Delhi in January 2026, which reviewed progress in political, economic and trade relations ahead of an anticipated ministerial Joint Commission meeting.
India’s High Commissioner to Namibia, Rahul Shrivastava, said India’s Constitution has guided the country for 77 years, delivering justice, liberty and equality while sustaining a vibrant and diverse democracy.
Shrivastava said bilateral relations gained renewed momentum following Prime Minister Modi’s state visit to Namibia in July 2025.
He said the visit strengthened cooperation through agreements in health and entrepreneurship, Namibia’s participation in India-led multilateral initiatives, and enhanced political engagement.
He highlighted progress in discussions towards an India–SACU Preferential Trade Agreement, growing capacity-building programme benefiting about 1,800 Namibians, and increased exchanges in business, sport, culture and media, underscoring the shared commitment to a deepening partnership.
(NAMPA)
EB/HP/EK