TIRI MASAWI
Chinese Ambassador to Namibia Zhao Wieping says relations between Namibia and China over the past 35 years have grown to mutually beneficial trade and economic cooperation.
Speaking at the commemoration of 35 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries, Wieping said China has long been Namibia’s major trading partner and the largest source of foreign direct investment.
He said China has implemented a series of aid projects in Namibia which have directly benefited the local people.
“We will support the Namibian Government in achieving the socio-economic goals set out in NDP 6.
We will work with the Namibian side to implement the zero-tariff treatment to African countries announced by President Xi as soon as possible, and ensure that our bilateral trade and development cooperation better align with Namibia’s practical needs, helping Namibia achieve industrialization and agricultural modernization,” Weeping said.
Weeping said China-Namibia relations have maintained strong momentum, become a model of brotherly relationship among developing countries, and presented a beautiful and grand symphony of enduring cooperation.
“Looking back on the 35 years of China-Namibia relations, the two sides have always treated each other as equals, supported one another, and helped each other. High-level visits have been frequent and political relations remain close. In 2018, President Xi Jinping and then-President Hage Geingob decided to establish a Comprehensive Strategic and Cooperative Partnership between the two countries, which has become a significant milestone in China-Namibia relations.” he said.
Wieping said Namibia and China, both belonging to the Global South, share similar historical experiences and values and upholding multilateralism and international fairness and justice.
“Our two peoples have forged their profound friendship as early as during Namibia’s struggle for national independence, and continued to maintain close contacts since the establishment of diplomatic ties with mutual understanding and friendly sentiments toward each other constantly deepened,” he said.
The Chinese Ambassador said the 35 years of friendly exchanges between China and Namibia have demonstrated that both countries attach great importance to the development of bilateral relations, which serves the common interests of both sides and contributes to the well-being of China and Namibia.
“Looking ahead, we are full of confidence in the future of China-Namibia relations. We stand ready to work together with the Namibian side to fully tap the potential of our bilateral relations and push forward China-Namibia relations for even greater development.
“Facing a new era, China is ready to join hands with Namibia to carry forward our traditional friendship, elevate our Comprehensive Strategic and Cooperative Partnership to new heights, and together compose a new symphony of China-Namibia win-win cooperation,” he said.
Meanwhile Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Jenelly Matundu said relations between Namibia and China are deeply Matundu said since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1990, Namibia and China have stood side by side, supporting one another in times of challenge and progress alike.
She said cooperation between Namibia and China has flourished across key sectors; Trade, Infrastructure, Energy, Education, Public Health, Defence, Culture and Science and Technology.
“Over the years, cooperation between Namibia and China has flourished across key sectors; Trade, Infrastructure, Energy, Education, Public Health, Defence, Culture and Science and Technology. China has been a steadfast partner in Namibia’s pursuit of sustainable development, from investment in renewable energy projects such as the Rosh Pinah Solar Power Plant and the Otjikoto Biomass Power Station, to the construction of critical infrastructure including Schools, Housing, and the Hosea Kutako International Airport Road,” she said
Matundu said Namibia values the people-to-people exchanges that have deepened understanding and friendship between our citizens.
“Chinese scholarships continue to empower Namibian students and professionals in diverse fields, while the Confucius Institute and the recently opened Hoachanas library, exemplify our shared commitment to cultural and educational enrichment,” she said
COMMENTS