Niël Terblanché
President Nangolo Mbumba emphasized the multifaceted partnership between Namibia and the European Union (EU) that transcends mere resource exchange during a courtesy visit by Ambassador Ana Beatriz Martins to State House.
The cornerstone of this growing alliance is a comprehensive agreement, signed in 2022 by the late President Hage Geingob and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, to develop a strategic hydrogen roadmap.
The meeting between President Mbumba and Ambassador Martins reiterated the deepening relationship of the partnership. The relationship is anchored in mutual commitment to sustainable development and green energy and is seen as a testament to the enduring legacy of President Geingob’s vision for the country.
This plan not only outlines cooperation in renewable hydrogen production but also in establishing sustainable value chains for essential raw materials like lithium, cobalt, and natural graphite – critical components for batteries – and rare earth elements used in wind turbines and electric motors.
The visit from the EU Ambassador to State House earlier this week served as an opportunity to reaffirm the EU’s support for Namibia’s ambitions in green energy, trade, and education.
Discussions between President Mbumba and Ambassador Martins covered a broad spectrum of topics, with a significant focus on advancing the green hydrogen and green industrialization agendas.
President Mbumba expressed his gratitude towards the EU for its continuous support.
“We are looking forward to a fruitful and deep partnership to honour the vision of the late President Geingob,” he said.
The sentiments were echoed by the Delegation of the EU to Namibia, which anticipates a rewarding collaboration in various developmental programs across the country.
Ambassador Martins praised Namibia’s strategic decision to pursue green energy solutions, noting the keen interest from European companies in investment opportunities.
She said that this enthusiasm is indicative of the broader global shift towards sustainable energy solutions and positions Namibia as a potential leader in the green hydrogen sector.
According to the EU Ambassador the partnership between Namibia and the EU is poised to have far-reaching implications, not just for the involved parties but also for the global community, as it showcases a successful model of international cooperation in the fight against climate change and for sustainable development.
She said that Namibia is on a path towards achieving its green energy and industrialization goals, thereby contributing to a more sustainable and economically resilient future.
