WINDHOEK, Namibia – October 13, 2023 – His Excellency Mr. Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, and His Excellency Dr. Hage G. Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia, co-chaired the third session of the Namibia-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Windhoek on October 13, 2023, following preparatory meetings of Ministers and Senior Officials earlier this year.
This high-level gathering served to underscore the enduring warmth and excellent bilateral relations between the two nations. Historical bonds of solidarity, socio-economic ties, and shared cultural heritage continue to underpin these diplomatic relationships.
Amid escalating conflicts in the Middle East, the leaders called for the urgent cessation of the armed conflict, the provision of humanitarian aid, and medical services to injured Palestinians. They reiterated their call for the full implementation of relevant United Nations resolutions, fostering peaceful co-existence between Israel and Palestine within internationally recognized borders.
The Heads of State acknowledged the significant progress in bilateral cooperation, spanning Diplomatic, Political, Legal, Social, Economic, Defence, and Security sectors. They reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen and consolidate their strategic cooperation and partnership.
An important development was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in the Field of Higher Education and Training. Furthermore, the leaders directed relevant government agencies to continue implementing existing agreements, with a Mid-Term Review planned to monitor progress.
In the realm of business, the establishment of a financing facility and a Namibia-South Africa Business Council was welcomed. These initiatives aim to boost bilateral trade, support industrial and investment relations, and promote a conducive environment for doing business.
Acknowledging the impact of climate change and the strain on natural resources in the Southern African region, the leaders committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. They recognized the role of renewable energy and green technologies in promoting sustainable economic growth.
Intensified cooperation in energy, including green hydrogen, oil and gas, and electricity, was a key outcome of the session. The Heads of State urged the international community to make critical green technologies accessible and affordable for developing countries.
Their commitment to peaceful conflict resolution in accordance with the African Union Constitutive Act and the United Nations Charter was reiterated, with support for the African Union’s Silencing of the Guns initiative.
The meeting concluded with South Africa’s invitation to host the next AGOA Forum and an agreement to coordinate positions at the multilateral level. The leaders reaffirmed their solidarity with the people of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic in their pursuit of self-determination and independence.
President Geingob congratulated South Africa on successfully hosting and presiding over the BRICS Summit, while President Ramaphosa praised President Geingob for his successful chairship of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation.
In a harmonious and cordial atmosphere, typical of their close and friendly relations, the Heads of State expressed their strong commitment to further deepen and broaden cooperation between their countries.
The event culminated with President Ramaphosa extending an invitation to President Geingob to attend the next Bi-National Commission in the Republic of South Africa, to be determined through diplomatic channels.
