Mushelenga confronts EU Delegation and German Embassy envoys over diplomatic norms breach

Staff Reporter

DR Peya Mushelenga, the Minister of International Relations, summoned envoys from the Delegation of the European Union (EU) and the German Embassy to emphasise that discussing issues handled solely by the Namibian government with parties not representing the government goes against diplomatic norms and interferes with the country’s internal affairs.
This meeting was prompted by a recent meeting between the envoys and an opposition leader, perceived as encroaching upon Namibia’s internal affairs.

“Whilst the Government has no objection to Diplomatic Missions accredited to Namibia engaging with various parties, discussions on matters exclusively within the purview of the sending and host governments, with individuals not representing the Government of the Republic of Namibia, are considered inconsistent with diplomatic practices and akin to interference in the domestic affairs of the country,” the ministry said.

The Minister emphasised to the envoys the imperative for Diplomatic Missions to uphold the established and universal principles outlined in the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961). He also reminded them that despite being a small state, Namibia possesses the same sovereignty as larger nations and expects to be treated accordingly.

“The Minister further reassured the Delegation of the European Union and the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany of Namibia’s readiness to continue the existing warm and longstanding relations and cooperation, albeit within the spirit of mutual respect and equality among sovereign states and organisations,” the ministry added.