WINDHOEK, Sept. 16 (Xinhua) -- Namibia has called for greater Chinese investment in productive sectors, including mineral beneficiation, manufacturing, agriculture, renewable energy and green hydrogen, as the two countries seek broader economic cooperation.
Speaking at a reception hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Windhoek on Tuesday evening to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, Namibia's Minister of International Relations and Trade Selma Ashipala-Musavyi said the country welcomed growing interest from Chinese enterprises and institutions.
"Our objective is clear and consistent: to move beyond traditional patterns of cooperation and advance industrialization, local value addition, employment creation, skills development, technology transfer and export diversification," she said.
Ashipala-Musavyi said Namibia particularly welcomes Chinese investment in mineral beneficiation, manufacturing, agriculture and agro-processing, renewable energy, green hydrogen, logistics, digital infrastructure, tourism and health.
She said Namibia seeks partnerships that build productive capacity, strengthen local enterprises and equip Namibians with the skills and technologies needed to participate meaningfully in the economy.
The minister also highlighted the opportunities created by China's zero-tariff initiative for African countries, saying Namibia aims to expand both the range and volume of its exports to the Chinese market.
"We appreciate the opportunities presented by enhanced access to the Chinese market through the zero-tariff initiative extended to African countries," she said.
At the regional and multilateral levels, the minister said Namibia values China's engagement with Africa through the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the two sides' shared commitment to multilateralism, sovereignty, international law and a more representative and equitable international system.
For his part, Chinese Ambassador to Namibia Zhao Weiping said the two countries have consistently respected and supported each other since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1990.
"I wish to emphasize here that China and Namibia not only share important common interests, but also enjoy profound traditional friendship. The spirit of friendship will continue to be reflected in exchanges and cooperation in all areas between our two countries," he said.
Zhao added that China would continue to support Namibia's development through cooperation in areas including trade and investment.
The reception was also attended by former Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba, senior government officials, political party representatives and members of the diplomatic corps. ■
