Namibia and Republic of Congo Call for Boost in Trade Relations Despite Strong Historic Ties
In a significant gathering aimed at enhancing economic cooperation, officials from Namibia and the Republic of Congo expressed concern over the low levels of trade between the two historically allied nations. The dialogue occurred during the 5th Session of the Namibia-Congo Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation held in Windhoek.
Ndiitah Nghipondoka-Robiati, Namibia’s Executive Director of Trade and International Relations, emphasized that, despite a solid foundation of friendship rooted in Namibia’s liberation struggle, both nations must shift from mere diplomatic niceties to achieving tangible economic benefits.
“Our bilateral relationship is strong, but trade and investment levels are disappointing,” she remarked during her address. Nghipondoka-Robiati pointed out that it is crucial for both countries to share experiences across various sectors to yield meaningful economic outcomes.
The meeting focused on reviewing developments since their last session and evaluating the execution of prior agreements in vital sectors, including mining, education, tourism, trade, and investments. However, several agreements remain outstanding, which officials acknowledged could impede progress if not addressed timely.
Recognizing the urgency, Nghipondoka-Robiati urged technical officials from both sides to expedite the implementation of existing agreements and memoranda of understanding. “We need to accelerate the finalization of agreements in health, tourism, fisheries, education, and technology,” she stated, highlighting that effective cooperation must lead to improvements in the daily lives of citizens.
Her counterpart, Ambassador Simeon Ewongo, who serves as the Executive Director in Congo’s Ministry of International Cooperation and Promotion of Public-Private Partnerships, acknowledged the efforts made in skills development and training. He noted the establishment of a technical and professional institute aimed at offering educational opportunities for Congolese students abroad.
“Significant progress has been recorded in several sectors, particularly in training and capacity building,” Ewongo observed. However, he acknowledged the challenges that remain, as many initiatives discussed in their previous meeting in 2015 have yet to be implemented fully.
The timing of this meeting is noteworthy, as Africa is working towards increasing intra-continental trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. Nghipondoka-Robiati pointed out that a more robust cooperation between Namibia and Congo would significantly contribute to the realization of “the Africa we want,” but only if both nations honor their commitments.
“As we proceed with our discussions today, our priority should be on promoting sustainable development in our countries,” she asserted, calling for a renewed focus on collaborative efforts that could unlock economic potential for both nations.
The relationship between Namibia and the Republic of Congo, characterized by solidarity in historical struggles, now faces the modern challenge of translating that bond into actual trade and investment. Both governments seem committed to evolving their historic ties into beneficial economic partnerships, but the path forward requires swift action and mutual dedication.
As officials continue their discussions, there is optimism that a strategic approach can bridge the current gaps in trade and investment, ultimately enhancing the livelihoods of citizens in both nations.
— Reported by Nexio News
