India and Namibia Forge a Stronger Partnership: A New Era of Cooperation
Windhoek, Namibia – During the final leg of his multi-nation tour, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to expand cooperation between the two countries in several key sectors, including defence, maritime security, energy, digital technology, and critical minerals.
In a historic moment, PM Modi also became the first Indian leader to address Namibia’s Parliament, where he unveiled a vision rooted in shared growth and mutual respect. Speaking with conviction, he emphasized that the future should be shaped by collaboration—not competition—and led by partnerships rather than power dynamics.
“Our goal is not to extract, but to empower. Let our cooperation pave the way for sustainable development and inclusive growth,” Modi told lawmakers, calling for a more equitable global order.
His message struck a chord across Africa, especially as many nations on the continent reassess their international alliances. Modi’s speech highlighted India’s belief in Africa’s potential as a hub of value creation and innovation, not just a source of raw materials. He proposed a future where children inherit both the hard-won freedom of the past and the opportunity of a shared tomorrow.
Security, Technology, and Conservation Take Center Stage
The two leaders also reaffirmed their joint commitment to combatting terrorism and amplifying the voices of developing nations through what Modi called the “Global South.” Expressing gratitude for Namibia’s solidarity following the recent tragedy in Pahalgam, India and Namibia vowed to work closer on global security matters.
Modi welcomed Namibia’s enthusiastic adoption of India’s UPI digital payment system—a move seen as a milestone for digital connectivity between the two nations. He also thanked Namibia for its pivotal role in supporting India’s cheetah conservation efforts, adding that the translocated cheetahs are thriving in their new home.
Namibia was invited to join India’s International Big Cat Alliance, an initiative focused on preserving endangered wild cats across the globe.
Boosting Trade and Development
To deepen economic ties, Modi proposed accelerating trade talks with the Southern African Customs Union. He also pledged increased development support through skill-building programs and hinted at future joint ventures in manufacturing across Namibian industries.
Two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed during the visit, signaling concrete steps toward long-term collaboration.
A Historic Honour
Capping off the visit, PM Modi was awarded Namibia’s highest civilian distinction—the Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis. Named after a rare desert plant that symbolizes resilience and strength, the award recognized Modi’s efforts to forge a durable partnership between India and Namibia. This marks the 27th international accolade of his career, and the fourth on this diplomatic tour alone.
With this visit, India and Namibia have opened a new chapter—one grounded in mutual respect, forward-looking cooperation, and a shared vision for a prosperous Global South.