Namibian president meets Chinese state councilor on friendly ties

WINDHOEK, - Namibian President Hifikepunye Pohamba on Wednesday met with visiting Chinese State Councilor Liu Yandong, hailing the development of friendly ties between the two countries.

Welcoming Liu at State House, Pohamba said China has given all the necessary assistance to Namibia before Namibia's independence, not only providing materials but experts to train Swapo fighters in Tanzania.

He said China was one of the first countries that established relations with Namibia immediately after the proclamation of Namibia's independence.

"My predecessor, Sam Nujoma, has been to China before and after Namibia's independence to thank the people of China for their contribution during Namibia's struggle (for independence)," said Pohamba. Liu said for the past 21 years, the relations between the two countries have enjoyed the momentum of sound growth.

She told Pohamba that China has decided to give a grant of 30 million RMB yuan (about 5 million U. S. dollars) to Namibia to support programs that have been mutually agreed upon. Liu added that her country also decided to sponsor 200 scholarships to Namibians from 2012 to 2016.

"We have seen that Namibia made great efforts, and we are happy for your achievements," she said.

Liu stressed that China appreciates the contribution made by Pohamba during his tenure as Chairman of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in 2010 and 2011.

Liu arrived here on Tuesday on a three-day official visit at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister Marco Hausiku to extend and deepen bilateral cooperation between the two countries, especially in the fields of culture, education, health, science and technology.

She held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Nahas Angula and other government officials. Liu also visited the University of Namibia (UNAM) on Wednesday, and met staff of the Chinese Embassy in Namibia and representatives of the Chinese community in Namibia.

Liu will also visit Botswana and Cameroon. She is expected to leave Namibia on Thursday.
Xinhua