WINDHOEK, Jan. 6 — Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Swakopmund on Monday, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and advancing cooperation across various sectors.
Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized the resilience of the China-Africa relationship, noting that it has withstood global challenges and continues to demonstrate new opportunities. “China remains a trustworthy partner for Africa and consistently prioritizes Africa in its diplomatic strategy,” Wang stated.
For 35 consecutive years, Chinese foreign ministers have chosen Africa as the destination for their first overseas visit of the year, a tradition that underscores China’s dedication to Africa. Wang described this tradition as a symbol of China’s unwavering commitment to advancing joint development and fostering the rise of the Global South.
He highlighted Namibia’s significance as a member of the African community and as a comprehensive strategic cooperation partner of China. Wang also referenced the 2023 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing, where Chinese President Xi Jinping introduced 10 partnership action plans to support modernization efforts across the continent.
“China is ready to work with Namibia to implement these action plans and assist in accelerating Namibia’s modernization process,” Wang added.
President Mbumba expressed Namibia’s strong commitment to its relationship with China, emphasizing the principles of mutual respect, solidarity, and cooperation. He reaffirmed Namibia’s adherence to the one-China principle and support for China’s sovereignty, including its territorial integrity concerning Taiwan.
“Despite differences in size, Namibia and China have always maintained a relationship of friendship and mutual support,” Mbumba said. He also praised China’s achievements under the leadership of Xi Jinping and the Communist Party of China, noting Namibia’s interest in expanding interparty exchanges and sharing governance experiences.
Recalling his meeting with Xi Jinping during the 2023 FOCAC Summit, Mbumba reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to implementing the outcomes of the summit, including the Beijing Declaration and Action Plan. He outlined areas for expanded cooperation such as infrastructure development, digital economy, energy, agriculture, and education, emphasizing their potential to enhance the well-being of both nations’ peoples.
Namibia also expressed support for the three global initiatives proposed by Xi Jinping: the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative. Mbumba highlighted Namibia’s desire to work closely with China on international and regional affairs to safeguard shared interests.
On the same day, Wang Yi also met with Namibian President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, further strengthening ties between the two nations and setting the stage for continued collaboration under the framework of China-Africa cooperation.
