Delhi, 10 July (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his State Visit to Namibia met with President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at the State House in Windhoek, marking the first Prime Ministerial visit to Namibia in 27 years and President Nandi-Ndaitwah's first bilateral State Visit since taking office. PM Modi congratulated Nandi-Ndaitwah on her election as Head of State and expressed condolences for the late Dr. Sam Nujoma, Namibia's Founding Father. The leaders discussed enhancing ties in defense, maritime security, digital technology, agriculture, health, energy, and critical minerals. They acknowledged the potential for growth in bilateral trade and urged for rapid discussions on the India-SACU PTA. PM Modi emphasized India's commitment to increasing development cooperation through capacity building for Namibian experts and exploring manufacturing partnerships.

Support for Quick Impact development projects was offered in agriculture, IT, cyber security, healthcare, education, women empowerment, and child welfare, highlighting India's experience with drones for agricultural use. PM Modi thanked Namibia for its support in the Cheetah conservation project and invited participation in the International Big Cat Alliance. They addressed global issues, reaffirming their commitment to counter-terrorism and amplifying the voice of the Global South. Following their talks, two MoUs were signed in health and entrepreneurship.

-MoU on setting up of Entrepreneurship Development Center in Namibia

-MoU on Cooperation in the field of Health and Medicine

Namibia joined the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and the Global Biofuels Alliance and became the first nation to adopt UPI technology through a licensing agreement. A banquet was held in honor of PM Modi, who invited Nandi-Ndaitwah to visit India at a mutually convenient time.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar