Namibia and China formally celebrated 35 years of diplomatic relations in a festive event held in Windhoek, coinciding with China’s 76th National Day. The occasion brought together senior Namibian and Chinese officials, diplomats, and business leaders to reflect on decades of cooperation.
Deputy Minister of International Relations and Trade Jenelly Matundu, speaking on behalf of Minister Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, reaffirmed that the partnership, established in 1990, has evolved into a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. She emphasized that their relationship is built on “solidarity, mutual respect, and shared aspirations.”
China’s Ambassador to Namibia, Zhao Weiping, highlighted key collaborative successes: major infrastructure such as the Hosea Kutako International Airport Road; educational institutions; housing projects; and renewable energy installations like the Rosh Pinah Solar Power Plant and Otjikoto Biomass Power Station. These projects underscore China’s significant role in Namibia’s sustainable development journey.
On trade and market access, efforts continue to expand opportunities. Namibia and China are working toward zero-tariff treatment for Namibian exports such as mutton, goat meat, and fisheries to deepen economic integration and benefit local producers.
Speeches also celebrated strong people-to-people ties: China has awarded scholarships to Namibian students, cultural exchanges have strengthened, and institutions such as the Confucius Institute and the Hoachanas Library are seen as bridges connecting educational and cultural experiences between the two nations.
