Namibia's Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, concluded an eight-day visit to the Chinese mainland this week, marking a pivotal step in strengthening bilateral ties ahead of China's zero-tariff policy for African exports and the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
Trade and Industrialization Take Center Stage
During meetings in Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Beijing, Ashipala-Musavyi emphasized Namibia's focus on value-added industries and green energy collaboration. 'We want to move beyond raw material exports,' she told China Africa Talk, highlighting opportunities in mineral processing, agriculture, and AI. The upcoming zero-tariff policy starting May 1 is expected to boost Namibia's port activity at Walvis Bay, a key gateway for landlocked neighbors.
36 Years of Strategic Partnership
Since establishing diplomatic relations post-Namibia's 1990 independence, cooperation has spanned infrastructure, education, and technology. Chinese firms previously upgraded Walvis Bay Port, and current talks explore renewable energy projects. 'Every new Namibian president receives high-level Chinese delegations,' noted Ashipala-Musavyi, underscoring sustained political engagement.
Multilateral Alignment on Global Challenges
Both nations reaffirmed commitments to climate action and fair trade systems during recent WTO meetings. 'We share a belief in peaceful dispute resolution and multilateralism,' the minister stated, referencing collaborative efforts at the UN Security Council where Namibia currently serves a term.
