Africa-Press – Namibia. Namibia’s international partnerships appear stronger than ever after two countries, Spain and Brazil, yesterday pledged technical support for offshore oil security and collaboration in renewable energy and water infrastructure.
Ambassadors Loss San Martin (Brazil) and Alberto de la Calle of Spain yesterday separately paid farewell visits to President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at State House.
They discussed key areas of cooperation, including defence, trade, education, green hydrogen and offshore oil security.
Brazil
During her meeting with Loss San Martin, Nandi-Ndaitwah described Brazil as one of Namibia’s closest and most consistent partners since independence.
She specifically highlighted the naval cooperation, saying it played a key role in helping Namibia build its navy from scratch.
“When we had to establish our navy, we depended on Brazil’s technical support through our naval agreement. We now have over 1 500 marines trained in Brazil, and Brazilian naval vessels continue to visit our shores,” she said.
The President noted that Brazil’s support in helping Namibia meet international maritime obligations under the Law of the Sea and as members of the South Atlantic Peace and Cooperation Zone.
Trade relations were also highlighted, with the mention of the Walvis Bay Corridor Group recently opening an office in São Paulo to link Namibian ports with South America.
Ambassador San Martin called Namibia-Brazil relations a “landmark” partnership, especially in naval cooperation.
“When I came to Namibia, everyone in Brazil already knew Namibia means naval cooperation. It’s a success story,” said San Martin.
She urged Namibia to take the next step and consider partnering with Brazil in protecting offshore oil platforms.
“You now have the oil and gas offshore sector. You need more coastal monitoring, boats and expertise. In Brazil, the navy is responsible for offshore security, and we are willing to help Namibia do the same,” she pledged.
She said discussions were already underway between the two countries’ defence ministries to expand that cooperation.
Spain
In her farewell meeting with the Spanish ambassador, Nandi-Ndaitwah welcomed Spain’s growing interest in Namibia’s green hydrogen potential, education and water management.
“Spain has shown strong interest in areas that are a priority to us, especially green energy and technical education,” she said.
Ambassador de la Calle told the President that Namibia has become a country of global interest, especially in the renewable energy sector.
“Namibia is not only important in Africa but globally. Spain wants to work with Namibia in green hydrogen, vocational training and water infrastructure,” said Ambassador de la Calle.
He added: “We are ready to provide technical support. These are areas where we can work closely and deliver results”.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah responded positively, saying Namibia was open to stronger cooperation in all three areas.
“We appreciate Spain’s readiness to partner with us. Your focus on water management and green energy aligns well with our national plans,” she said.
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