Russia and Namibia bound by ‘true partnership’ – Namibian president
Russia and Namibia have a history “based in true partnership,” Namibian President Ndemupelila Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has said.
Speaking to RT, the leader underscored that trust forged during the country’s liberation war now underpins growing economic cooperation between the two nations.
“It’s a history that’s based in solidarity and it’s a history that comes with what one did not even expect. Came with blood, I can say that,” she said, recalling how the Soviet Union helped Namibia fight for its independence from apartheid South Africa.
Now, Nandi-Ndaitwah says, the focus has shifted from political liberation to economic sovereignty – and Namibia continues to count on Russia as a reliable partner.
Namibia, rich in minerals and energy resources, is seeking to industrialize. But it needs technological cooperation. “Russia has the technology… We have the resources, but we need technology,” the president said. “So we have to turn to friendly countries where we can make use of our resources to develop our country.”
Bilateral cooperation between Russia and Namibia includes plans and ongoing initiatives in uranium mining, energy, and scientific exchanges.
Commenting on RT’s 20th anniversary, the president praised the Russian media outlet for offering an alternative perspective. “That’s where you’ll be able to get balanced information,” she said. “The Western media… they have their message they want to put there.” She stressed the importance of media pluralism, saying audiences must hear from “all sources.”
On shifting geopolitical alignments, Nandi-Ndaitwah supported the right of African countries to reassess alliances and foreign military presence if they no longer serve national interests. “Every country can assess their own situation and decide on the strategy… If it [an alliance] is no longer serving the purpose… you have to make a strategic move,” she said.
She noted that these shifts reflect deep strategic thinking, especially when development goals are not being met. “You cannot just keep yourself in the same position if you are having the same results,” she added.
