By: Kelvin Chiringa
Namibia has over the past three days been discussing cooperation agreements with Ghana on the economic and social fronts which got crowned by two Memoranda of Understanding.
In his closing remarks, Ghana’s deputy minister for foreign affairs and regional integration, Charles Oriwedu said they considered MoUs and agreements of cooperation between relevant institutions of the two countries.
He said although the twelve MoUs had not been signed, both parties nonetheless forged a common ground in most areas.
“It is my fervent hope that our two sides will keep working after this Session to conclude the outstanding agreements,” he said.
The session also produced a report which he said will form the basis of continued bilateral cooperation.
He affirmed that by the volume and quality of work that has been done over the past three days, it is quite clear that that the relations between Ghana and Namibia have been reinvigorated and have risen to higher heights.
“Ghana and Namibia are joined by our shared history of colonialism and by our determination to overcome its challenges. We have a common destiny to pursue, and indeed, our two countries are active members of the African Union and as Member States, we are also resolved in the pursuit of a peaceful, prosperous and integrated Africa.”
“We have also demonstrated, over the years, an enduring commitment to enhance bilateral relations for the mutual benefit of our two countries and peoples. Therefore, the need to strengthen our economic cooperation cannot be overemphasized. Through our collective efforts, we must encourage private sector investment in our respective countries and improve trade between our two countries,” he said.
What is now left for both countries is that the work done during these last few days, has a positive impact on citizens and show tangible benefits that they can relate to, he said.
He said as such the MoUs and agreements for cooperation that got finalised this week Wednesday should be seen as only the beginning of the processes required to deepen engagement between institutions of the two countries.
“They are also to strengthen our capacities to enhance public governance, facilitate a greater role for our respective private sectors, and create opportunities for enhanced human development as well as social protection for vulnerable groups,” he added.
