India and Namibia today signed key accords for cooperation in the field of defence and peaceful uses of nuclear energy, among other things.
New Delhi also announced its decision to offer to Namibia Lines of Credit of $100 million dollars over the next five years to be used in projects and supplies of products from India.
Namibian President Hifikepunye Pohamba, who is on a state visit to India, held talks with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and other Indian leaders here today.
The two leaders discussed a wide range of issues, including bilateral ties as well as international developments.
Apart from the accords for cooperation in defence and energy field, the two countries inked MOUs/agreements on cooperation in the field of geology and mineral resources; establishing a Pan-African e-Network; and on waiver of visas for diplomatic and official passports.
Significance is being attached to the agreement on nuclear energy. After the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) allowed trade in nuclear technology and fuel with India, New Delhi has been looking for new sources to tap nuclear energy to meet its increasing electricity needs.
But with limited domestic uranium reserves, India has been looking abroad to get assured supplies. It has already signed an agreement with Kazakhstan.
After signing of the bilateral agreements, the Prime Minister said India was committed to help Namibia in all spheres. The Namibian President said he was fully satisfied with the talks that he had with the Indian leader.
Both countries were committed to the Non-Aligned Movement and wanted continuation of reform process of the United Nations, particularly democratisation of United Nations Security Council.
The Indian side expressed its deep appreciation to Namibia for its consistent support to India’s candidature for a permanent seat on an expanded Security Council, and for its support to New Delhi’s bid candidature for a non-permanent seat for 2011-12.
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