Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah arrived at South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in Pretoria to jointly inaugurate the Fourth Session of the Namibia–South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. The summit marked another important milestone in strengthening relations between the two neighboring countries as leaders reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation and outlined priorities for future collaboration across key sectors.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah was formally welcomed by South African officials before participating in high-level discussions aimed at reinforcing political, economic, and diplomatic ties between the two nations. The Bi-National Commission serves as the principal platform for coordinating cooperation on matters of mutual interest, including trade, infrastructure, energy, education, security, investment, and regional development.
During the opening session, President Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed appreciation for South Africa’s warm reception and reaffirmed the historic friendship forged through the shared liberation struggles of both nations. She emphasized that the sacrifices made during the fight against colonialism and apartheid created a lasting partnership that continues to guide cooperation between Namibia and South Africa today.
The Namibian leader stressed that political independence must now be complemented by sustained economic development that delivers tangible improvements in the lives of citizens. She called for stronger collaboration to create employment opportunities, stimulate investment, expand regional trade, and improve livelihoods, noting that neighboring countries have a shared responsibility to work together for the benefit of present and future generations.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah also addressed the long-standing Orange River boundary matter, expressing optimism that years of technical consultations and diplomatic engagement have laid the groundwork for a mutually acceptable outcome. She voiced hope that the summit would help bring closure to an issue inherited from the colonial era, creating greater certainty while reinforcing trust and cooperation between the two countries.
“Our shared history remains the foundation of the Namibia–South Africa Bi-National Commission, and our responsibility is to transform political freedom into meaningful economic progress for our people,” President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said during her official remarks. She further stated that years of diplomatic and technical engagement have prepared both governments to pursue a lasting solution to the remaining boundary issue, describing such progress as an important legacy for future generations.
President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed the Namibian delegation and reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation through the Bi-National Commission. He emphasized that continued partnership between the two governments reflects a common vision for regional peace, sustainable economic growth, and stronger integration across Southern Africa.
The Fourth Session of the Namibia–South Africa Bi-National Commission concluded with renewed commitments from both governments to strengthen institutional cooperation, address outstanding bilateral matters through dialogue, and advance joint initiatives that promote economic prosperity, regional stability, and closer people-to-people relations for the benefit of both countries.
