Namibian President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah welcomed China’s Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi to Windhoek on January 6, 2025, marking a significant moment in the ongoing strengthening of bilateral cooperation between the two nations. The high-level meeting held just before a closed-door session, highlighted the growing partnership between Namibia and China, a relationship rooted in mutual respect and collaboration.
Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the importance of Wang’s visit, stating that it was a clear indication of the strengthening of ties between the two countries. Reflecting on the shared commitment to furthering bilateral relations, she mentioned a pivotal moment in 2018 when the two countries’ leaders agreed to elevate their cooperation to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. This decision, Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed, has been of great importance to Namibia and continues to shape the trajectory of the bilateral relationship.
The meeting with Wang Yi was not only a symbol of strengthened diplomacy but also an opportunity for Namibia to express its gratitude. The President-elect thanked the Communist Party of China for its delegation’s presence during Namibia’s presidential and national elections in November 2024. This gesture, she remarked, exemplifies the longstanding friendship between the people of Namibia and China.
Wang Yi’s visit is also framed within the broader context of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit, held in Beijing in September 2024, where Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba participated. Wang noted that the purpose of his visit was to engage in discussions with Namibian leaders following the summit, deepening the mutual understanding and shared development goals between the two nations.
The Chinese Foreign Minister, who is also a prominent member of the Communist Party’s political bureau, explained that China’s diplomatic tradition prioritizes African countries, with the first overseas visits each year often directed toward the continent. He reiterated China’s deep respect for Africa, emphasizing that the long-standing friendship between China and Africa, which dates back to the days of national independence and liberation, continues to thrive today in the form of mutually beneficial cooperation.
“We cherish the time-honoured friendship between China and Africa, and we remain committed to our shared development,” said Wang Yi. “Our cooperation with African nations, including Namibia, is a testament to this enduring bond, and we look forward to continuing this journey together.”
Wang also highlighted China’s role as a steadfast partner to African nations, underlining the reciprocal trust and support that has flourished between China and the African continent, particularly through the leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping and African leaders. He expressed optimism that the relationship between China and Namibia, and indeed the entire African continent, would continue to flourish in the coming years.
Both leaders reiterated their commitment to fostering long-term, sustainable cooperation and mutual development. Wang’s visit underscored China’s continued commitment to supporting Namibia and Africa as a whole, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a reliable partner in the international community.
