President Ramaphosa Addresses the 3rd South Africa-Namibia Bi-National Commission in Windhoek

Windhoek, Namibia – October 13, 2023 – South African President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the 3rd South Africa-Namibia Bi-National Commission in Windhoek, Namibia, with a strong focus on regional cooperation, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the need for a reformed global governance system.

The opening remarks, delivered with warmth and gratitude, acknowledged the host, Namibian President Dr. Hage Geingob, and underscored the importance of the event as an opportunity to exchange views on mutual interests between the two nations.

Addressing the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

President Ramaphosa expressed deep concern over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its humanitarian toll. He called for an immediate cessation of hostilities to prevent further suffering and stressed the importance of a two-state solution within the 1967 internationally accepted borders. The failure to implement United Nations resolutions and decisions, he noted, has contributed to the resurgence of hostilities.

Both South Africa and Namibia, as advocates of progressive internationalism, reaffirmed their commitment to a world free from violence and conflict and expressed the need for reconciliation and peace in the region.

Regional Collaboration and Economic Integration

The South Africa-Namibia Bi-National Commission serves as a vital mechanism for the pursuit of their shared future. President Ramaphosa commended the Ministers and officials for their hard work in implementing decisions since President Geingob’s State Visit to South Africa. Notably, the audit of legal instruments has shown progress.

Efforts to deepen investment and trade between the two countries are a priority, with the establishment of the South Africa-Namibia Business Council in the pipeline. Collaboration in the energy sector, including oil, gas, and green hydrogen, was discussed, acknowledging Namibia’s recent hydrocarbon discoveries as a potential source of job creation and energy security.

Addressing Climate Change and Water Security

Climate change and water security were also on the agenda. The Orange River, integral to trilateral collaboration with Lesotho for the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, is a focus for ensuring water security in the region. Both countries emphasized the need for regional value chains and manufacturing capacity to reduce the export of raw materials.

Contributing to Regional Peace

President Ramaphosa touched upon South Africa and Namibia’s commitment to regional peace, particularly in combating terrorism and extremism in Northern Mozambique. The resolution of this situation is paramount for the return of displaced populations and reconstruction to begin. Both nations are also actively supporting peacebuilding efforts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Global Governance and Western Sahara

Lastly, President Ramaphosa reiterated the importance of multilateralism and the strengthening of global governance institutions. South Africa and Namibia called for the reform of the United Nations, with a focus on the Security Council and the global financial architecture. They expressed their solidarity with the people of Western Sahara and the importance of fully implementing the commitments made during the SADC Solidarity Conference with Western Sahara.

The remarks underscored the need for responsive, progressive, and representative global governance institutions. President Ramaphosa thanked President Geingob for the warm welcome and hospitality, looking forward to the discussions that lay ahead during the Bi-National Commission.