Windhoek [Namibia], July 9 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly received by Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at the State House in Windhoek on Wednesday, where the two leaders met and shook hands, marking the formal start of bilateral engagements during Modi’s historic State Visit to Namibia.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi arrived at Hosea Kutako International Airport and was greeted with a ceremonial welcome by Namibia’s Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi. He then proceeded to his hotel in Windhoek, where members of the Indian diaspora extended a culturally rich and enthusiastic welcome, featuring Yoga performances and traditional greetings.
The visit marks the first by Prime Minister Modi to Namibia and only the third-ever Prime Ministerial visit from India to the southern African nation.
At the hotel, PM Modi interacted with members of the diaspora, shaking hands, listening to their messages, and graciously accepting gifts and portraits presented by the community. He praised the Indian community for maintaining their deep cultural and traditional ties with their homeland.
In a post on X, PM Modi expressed pride in the diaspora, saying, “The Indian community in Namibia is extremely optimistic about closer India-Namibia friendship, and this is reflected in the special welcome in Windhoek. I am extremely proud of our diaspora, particularly how they have retained a connection with their culture and traditions.”
The Ministry of External Affairs also shared a post on X highlighting the significance of the visit: “PM Narendra Modi lands in the capital city of Windhoek, Namibia, to a warm welcome. He was received by Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, Minister of International Relations and Trade of Namibia, at the airport. This is the first visit of the PM to Namibia.”
Calling Namibia a “valued and trusted African partner,” PM Modi added on X: “Landed in Windhoek a short while ago. Namibia is a valued and trusted African partner with whom we seek to boost bilateral cooperation. Looking forward to meeting President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and addressing the Namibian Parliament today.”
PM Modi’s visit to Namibia comes after concluding a two-day State visit to Brazil, where he attended the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro and held bilateral talks with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
Namibia is the final stop in Modi’s five-nation tour, which also included Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, and Brazil. (ANI)
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