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Despite recent national mourning following the loss of two presidents, Namibia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its long-standing bilateral relations with Russia. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, speaking during a courtesy visit by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Trutnev, emphasized the enduring bond between the two nations and their shared vision for continued cooperation.
At State House, Nandi-Ndaitwah assured Trutnev that despite the inevitable changes in leadership, Namibia remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering deeper ties with Russia. “We know there are a lot of changes, but as part of life there must be changes, so we just have to face them,” she stated. “I know from the work of the intergovernmental commission there is a lot of work that needs to be done.”
The two nations have a history of collaborative efforts, most recently highlighted by the 10th anniversary meeting of the Russia-Namibia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation in March 2024. During this meeting, Trutnev and the late Peya Mushelenga, then Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, explored avenues for enhanced cooperation across several key sectors, including agriculture, space, fishing, mining, energy, tourism, education, healthcare, and trade.
Trutnev, on his part, acknowledged the significant progress made in bilateral trade, noting a doubling of trade turnover. However, he stressed the vast untapped potential for further growth. “The intergovernmental commission is aimed at strengthening our countries’ bilateral cooperations. Our trade has doubled, but there is still room for development,” he said. He pledged his commitment to furthering the relationship, assuring, “Considering that you are statutory to the Russian Federation, I am sure that the friendship between our countries will develop in the future and assure that I will do from my side everything that is possible for reaching this.”
The continued dialogue between Namibia and Russia underscores the importance of maintaining strong international partnerships, even amidst periods of national transition. Both nations are determined to build upon their existing foundation of cooperation, ensuring mutual benefit and continued growth in their bilateral relationship.
