Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a ceremonial welcome in Namibia, marking the final stop of his five-nation tour and the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in nearly three decades. The welcoming ceremony took place at the State House in Namibia, accompanied by the Indian national anthem.
Following the welcome, PM Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, ‘Heroes’ Acre’, a memorial established in 2002 by President Sam Nujoma. The memorial features a white obelisk and burial plots dedicated to national heroes. The site includes a grandstand, viewing pavilion, and a restaurant.
During discussions with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, PM Modi reviewed the spectrum of India-Namibia relations. Talks focused on cooperation in digital technology, defense, security, agriculture, healthcare, education, and critical minerals, with an emphasis on boosting trade, energy, and petrochemical linkages. PM Modi also expressed gratitude for Namibia’s assistance in Project Cheetah.
PM Modi was warmly greeted at Hosea Kutako International Airport and by the Indian diaspora, with whom he interacted, acknowledging their efforts to preserve their culture and traditions. The visit is poised to deepen the ties between the two nations, built upon India’s early support for Namibian independence.
Namibia, rich in uranium, copper, cobalt, and rare earth minerals, is a key player in the mining industry. Bilateral trade reached USD 814 million in 2023-24, with Indian exports dominating. Indian investments in Namibia primarily target the mining sector, totaling approximately $800 million. A notable example of cooperation is the successful cheetah translocation to India in 2022. Both countries are exploring further collaboration in mining, energy, health, agriculture, and infrastructure. Negotiations for a Preferential Trade Arrangement between India and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), coordinated by Namibia, are ongoing.
