On March 22, 1990, just one day after Namibia declared its independence, China and Namibia embarked on a journey of close friendship that has now spanned 35 years. This enduring relationship, born from early revolutionary solidarity, has evolved into a comprehensive partnership marked by mutual respect and shared development.
The foundation of this bond was laid in the 1960s when China supported the South West Africa People\'s Organization (SWAPO) during its struggle for independence. That early support forged deep revolutionary ties which have since grown into robust political trust, economic cooperation, and vibrant people-to-people exchanges.
High-level engagements have played a pivotal role in deepening these ties. In March 2018, a state visit by Namibian leadership to China elevated bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, paving the way for expanded collaboration across various sectors. Recently, trade between the two nations exceeded $1.3 billion in 2023, reflecting a 16.5% year-on-year increase, while China contributed nearly 30% of Namibia\'s total foreign direct investment, underscoring its role as a key economic partner.
At the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the shared progressive history of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and SWAPO, highlighting the importance of exchanging governance experiences and fostering development opportunities. As cultural exchanges and practical cooperation continue to flourish, the 35th anniversary serves not only as a celebration of past achievements but also as a beacon for future collaborative success.
This milestone in China-Namibia relations underscores a model of diplomatic partnership that resonates on a global scale, inspiring trust and fostering further international engagement.
