(Forelines) – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Namibian Parliament today at the invitation of H.E. Saara Kuugongelwa, Speaker of the National Assembly. This unusual action by Namibia added to the importance of the Prime Minister’s State Visit to Namibia, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.
Prime Minister Modi addressed the Parliament, welcoming the members of the august House as well as the friendly Namibians from the “Mother of Democracy,” the world’s greatest democracy. The Prime Minister honored the legacy of Dr. Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding father, recalling the two nations’ longstanding relationship and their common fight for independence.
PM Modi pointed out that the democratic ideals and principles upheld by the two nations’ founding fathers still serve as a beacon of hope for both nations’ future development. He praised Namibia’s government and citizens for their contributions to the country’s growing democracy.
The prime minister Modi expressed gratitude to the Namibian people for giving him their highest national award. He said that the accomplishments of the democracies in Namibia and India were honored by this unique gesture.
“As sentinels of freedom, equality and justice, he called upon the two countries to work for the betterment of the Global South, so that the voices of its people are not just heard, but their hopes and aspirations are fully realized,” India’s MEA said in a statement.
PM Modi emphasized that India will continue to strive for Africa’s advancement, just as it did when it presided over the G-20 and the African Union was admitted as a permanent member.
He said Namibia and other nations on the continent were fortunate to hear about India’s growth experience.
“India remains committed to building capacity, developing skills, promoting local innovation and supporting Africa’s Agenda 2063,” India’s MEA added.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the Speaker for the distinction. In order for the two democracies to continue to thrive, he advocated for increased interpersonal contact between the two nations. As he wrapped up his speech, he remarked, “Let our children inherit not only the freedom we fought for, but also the future we will build together.”