Namibia: Namibia and India have reaffirmed their longstanding bilateral relations during India's 77th Republic Day celebrations held on Monday evening. Speaking on behalf of the Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, Deputy Minister Janelly Matundu emphasized the occasion as a tribute to India's Constitution and its foundational values of democracy, sovereignty, and unity.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Matundu described India as a global inspiration, highlighting its ethic of hard work, service, and friendship. She noted that Namibia and India share historic ties rooted in solidarity during Namibia's struggle for independence, which have evolved into strong political cooperation and collaboration across sectors such as trade, education, ICT, health, defense, and capacity building. The bilateral relations continue to deepen, underpinned by mutual trust and South-South cooperation.
Matundu highlighted recent milestones, including high-level engagements and the state visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Namibia last year, during which several memoranda of understanding were signed. Among the tangible outcomes of cooperation is the success of the 2022 cheetah translocation agreement, under which the Namibian-origin cheetah population in India has grown from eight to 19 in less than four years.
Matundu also welcomed India's donation of 1,000 tonnes each of rice and maize to support Namibia's drought relief efforts, describing the gesture as a testament to enduring friendship. She further noted the conclusion of the fifth Namibia-India Foreign Office Consultations held in New Delhi in January 2026, which reviewed progress in political, economic, and trade relations ahead of an anticipated ministerial Joint Commission meeting.
India's High Commissioner to Namibia, Rahul Shrivastava, stated that India's Constitution has guided the country for 77 years, delivering justice, liberty, and equality while sustaining a vibrant and diverse democracy. Shrivastava mentioned that bilateral relations gained renewed momentum following Prime Minister Modi's state visit to Namibia in July 2025.
He explained that the visit strengthened cooperation through agreements in health and entrepreneurship, Namibia's participation in India-led multilateral initiatives, and enhanced political engagement. He highlighted progress in discussions towards an India-SACU Preferential Trade Agreement, a growing capacity-building program benefiting about 1,800 Namibians, and increased exchanges in business, sport, culture, and media, underscoring the shared commitment to a deepening partnership.