Mushelenga commends achievements made by International Relations Ministry under Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership

Staff Reporter

DR Peya Mushelenga, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, expressed pride in the achievements of the International Relations’ Ministry, highlighting that these accomplishments were made under the “devoted and able” leadership of his predecessor, the current Vice President, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.

He revealed that the Ministry of International Relations achieved a number of significant milestones during Nandi-Ndaitwah’s tenure, including the opening of new Namibian embassies in the Republic of Congo, Senegal, Finland, Ghana, and Algeria, as well as a Consulate in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Mushelenga also highlighted several other key milestones. These include the review of the Policy on International Relations and Cooperation in 2016, aimed at ensuring the alignment of Namibia’s foreign policy with contemporary global challenges and opportunities, as well as the establishment of the Namibia School of Diplomatic Studies, and the establishment of the International Women’s Peace Centre (IWPC).

He also underscored the significance of the Agreement on the Establishment of Bi-National Commissions with Angola, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, highlighting its role in elevating cooperation from Ministerial to Presidential levels, thereby strengthening diplomatic ties and cooperation among these nations.

Besides this, he highlighted the achievement of market access for Namibian beef in various countries, including China, Ghana, the DRC, the United States of America (USA), and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This achievement, he stressed, not only enhances Namibia’s economic opportunities but also contributes to the country’s reputation as a reliable supplier of high-quality agricultural products on the global stage.

“Some of these achievements were realized during the difficult times of the Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with the global economic downturn. Despite the immense challenges, we persevered,” Mushelenga said.
The minister thus expressed gratitude to the officers at the headquarters and missions for executing the mandate of the Ministry, carrying out their representational duties, and serving the interests of the country and the people.

He also expressed his gratitude to President Nangolo Mbumba for appointing him as the Minister of International Relations earlier this year, following Nandi-Ndaitwah’s appointment as Vice President and President Mbumba’s inauguration as the fourth president of the country, succeeding the late President Hage Geingob.

“I am equally grateful and humbled by the trust and confidence that His Excellency President Nangolo Mbumba has shown in me, in appointing me to be at the helm of Namibia’s foreign relations and diplomacy,” he said.