India-Namibia Relations: A Strategic Partnership

The article discusses India's growing diplomatic and economic relationship with Namibia, emphasizing a strategic and culturally mindful approach to partnership-building.

Prime Minister's Address in Namibia

• The prime minister engaged with Namibia's culture by quoting a local poet and using Oshiwambo phrases.
• This approach contrasts with Western engagement, which often comes with conditions like migration control.

Strategic Approach to Partnership

India's strategy is based on a three-step logic:

1. Shared Historical Solidarities:

• Emphasizes common anti-colonial heritage.
• References India's past support during Namibia's liberation struggle.

2. Current Cooperation:

• Bilateral trade is valued at $800 million.
• Investments in IT, exemplified by the India-Namibia Centre of Excellence.

3. Future-Oriented Ties:

• Namibia adopts India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI), marking tech diplomacy.
• Namibia's stability and resources provide a foundation for long-term cooperation.

Challenges and Opportunities

• India's engagement has been sporadic, with recent high-level visits being infrequent.
• Recent agreements include memoranda on entrepreneurship and health but lack major deals on minerals.
• Namibia's uranium resources present an untapped opportunity for strategic collaboration.

Conclusion and Future Prospects

• India's approach highlights trust, inclusive dialogue, and African priorities.
• The upcoming India-Africa Forum Summit is a platform to solidify diplomatic efforts.
• Sustained investment and strategic coherence are essential for long-term partnership credibility.