Niël Terblanché
Namibia’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Peya Mushelenga, recently concluded talks with his Russian counterpart, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
The meeting, held in Moscow, marks a crucial step in reinforcing the already robust relationship between Namibia and Russia, underpinned by a shared history of struggle and mutual respect.
It was reported by Russian media that both ministers acknowledged the modest level of bilateral trade as an area needing improvement.
The ministers expressed optimism about the potential growth in trade, with the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation playing a pivotal role in this endeavour.
The countries identified mineral resource extraction and processing, energy, agriculture, fishing, public health, personnel training, culture, tourism, and sports, as key areas for cooperation and avenues to bolster economic ties.
According to reports, the discussions between the two ministers also ventured into regional issues, with a particular focus on the tensions in the Southern African Development Community (SADC), especially in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and northern Mozambique.
Lavrov emphasized Russia’s belief in the importance of strengthening African sovereignty and adhering to African solutions for African problems.
The meeting stressed a mutual commitment to enhance Russia-SADC cooperation and explored prospects within the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum.
During the meeting, the ministers also delved into global concerns, including the situation in the Middle East, noting the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
During these talks, both parties celebrated the enduring friendship and expanding bilateral ties rooted in the Namibian people’s uncompromising fight for self-determination.
The ministers also revisited the agreement on the growing relationship, characterized by increased contacts between their respective parliaments, political parties, and various government ministries and agencies.
This visit marked Minister Mushelenga’s inaugural trip to Russia in his capacity as Minister of International Relations and Cooperation. Lavrov expressed gratitude for Namibia’s support for Russia’s initiatives at the United Nations, touching on significant issues like combating the glorification of Nazism, disarmament, outer space, and cyber security.
Both ministers reiterated their support for the democratization of international relations, founded on the principles of the UN Charter. They discussed the need for UN reform, particularly the Security Council, to better represent African interests.
The ministers agreed to intensify efforts to finalize the language on a series of draft inter-governmental and inter-agency documents, paving the way for a deeper and more comprehensive partnership.
The meeting between the foreign affairs ministers of Namibia and Russia not only reaffirms their historical bonds but also sets a promising path for enhanced bilateral cooperation and a shared vision for addressing regional and global challenges.
