Prime Minister Modi's Historic Visit to Namibia: Strengthening India-Namibia Relations
Ceremonial Welcome in Namibia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was greeted with a grand ceremonial reception in Namibia, marking the conclusion of his five-nation tour and making him the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the African country in almost thirty years. The welcome took place at the State House, where the Indian national anthem resonated during the ceremony.
Tribute at Heroes' Acre
Following the welcome, PM Modi paid his respects by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial, known as 'Heroes' Acre'. This memorial, featuring a striking white obelisk against the backdrop of the Auas Mountains, honors 174 burial sites of national heroes and was established by President Sam Nujoma in 2002 to commemorate Namibia's liberation struggle.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
During discussions with Namibia's President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, PM Modi reviewed the extensive India-Namibia relationship. He shared insights on cooperation in various sectors, including digital technology, defense, agriculture, healthcare, and education. Modi emphasized the importance of enhancing trade, energy, and petrochemical linkages, expressing gratitude for Namibia's support in Project Cheetah.
Warm Reception from the Diaspora
Upon his arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport, PM Modi received a warm welcome from the Namibian Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi. He also engaged with members of the Indian diaspora, exchanging greetings and accepting gifts, while expressing pride in their cultural ties. Modi noted the optimism within the community regarding the strengthening of India-Namibia relations.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
This visit is poised to further solidify the historic ties between India and Namibia, rooted in India's early advocacy for Namibia's independence. With Namibia's rich reserves of uranium, copper, and rare earth minerals, the country is becoming increasingly significant in the global mining sector. The bilateral trade between India and Namibia reached USD 814 million in the 2023-24 period, with Indian exports making up a substantial portion of this figure.
Expanding Cooperation
A notable instance of collaboration between the two nations was the successful translocation of eight cheetahs from Namibia to India's Kuno National Park in 2022, marking a significant achievement in wildlife conservation. Both countries are actively exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation in mining, energy, health, and infrastructure, with ongoing negotiations for a Preferential Trade Arrangement involving the Southern African Customs Union.