• Namibia and Russia agreed to expand cooperation across energy, mining, and agriculture.
• Both countries emphasized improving the investment climate and advancing pending agreements.
• Bilateral trade reached $31.82 million in 2024, according to the International Trade Center.

Namibia and Russia have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic and political relations. Officials made the announcement during the 11th session of the intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation held in Windhoek from Sunday, March 15 to Monday, March 16.

Officials discussed strengthening and diversifying cooperation across multiple priority sectors. They focused on trade and investment as well as energy, including peaceful nuclear applications. They also addressed mining, agriculture, food security, transport and logistics, education, healthcare, tourism, and defense and security.

The Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation stated, “The parties emphasized the importance of creating a favorable investment climate and expressed their commitment to advancing negotiations on pending agreements.”

The meeting followed the recent Namibia–Russia Economic Forum. Authorities presented the forum as a key platform to boost trade, technology transfer, and private-sector partnerships. Namibia and Russia established diplomatic relations in 1990. Both countries have since expanded cooperation across political, economic, commercial, and humanitarian areas.

At the same time, Namibia seeks to leverage its natural resources and geopolitical position to attract foreign investment. As Africa’s leading uranium producer, Namibia has explored potential partnerships with Russia in the nuclear sector to enhance resource value. Meanwhile, Russia continues to expand its economic and diplomatic presence across Africa.

Bilateral trade between the two countries reached $31.82 million in 2024, according to the International Trade Center. Trade flows include fish, edible fruits and nuts, as well as nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery, and mechanical appliances. 

Lydie Mobio