Prime Minister Narendra Modi was given a standing ovation on Wednesday after he delivered a strong speech to the Namibian Parliament, where he emphasized collaboration, equality, and inclusive development. While the legislature members clapped, Modi replied with folded hands, conveying sincere thanks.
Modi asserted in his address, “Let us build a future which is not driven by power, but by partnership—by dialogue, not dominance, and by equity, not exclusion.” Many widely saw his words as a subtle rebuke of China’s extractive approach to Africa, contrasting it with India’s engagement based on cooperation and mutual respect.
‘Africa Should Lead in Value Creation’: Modi
In his address, PM Modi emphasized the need for Africa to go beyond merely providing raw material. “Africa can be at the forefront of value creation and inclusive growth. Let our children inherit not only freedom, but a common future that we create together,” he further added.
Gratitude Namibia for Support and Cheetah Project
Modi expressed gratitude to Namibia for standing with him after the Pahalgam terror attack and complimented it on its cooperation in India’s program for reintroducing cheetahs. “The cheetahs are doing well in their new residence and their numbers are increasing. It’s clear that they’re enjoying their visit,” he stated. He also had hopes of Namibia becoming a member of the International Big Cat Alliance in the near future.
India, Namibia Sign MoUs, Expand Digital and Trade Ties
The visit saw two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and substantial progress on a preferential trade agreement with the Southern African Customs Union. Furthermore, India also revealed new proposals to enhance development cooperation through capacity-building and, in addition, suggested collaborative ventures for manufacturing in Namibia.
Importantly, Namibia also agreed to implement India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI), which is a first in digital financial cooperation between the two countries.
Namibia Awards Modi its Highest Civilian Honour
On his efforts to enhance India-Namibia ties, PM Modi received Namibia’s highest civilian award, The Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis.
Modi Matches Record for Foreign Parliament Addresses
Final Leg of Five-Nation Tour
This Namibia visit concluded Modi’s five-nation diplomatic tour. His meetings with Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah in Windhoek focused on cooperation in defence, maritime security, digital innovation, energy, and critical minerals.