Sakeus Iikela
Chairperson of the National Council, Hon. Lukas Sinimbo Muha, has emphasised the need for Namibia to deepen its relations with Indonesia to achieve tangible cooperation and collaboration in agriculture, aiming to boost food security.
He made these remarks during a meeting with members of the Indonesian Parliament, who are visiting Namibia on a reciprocal mission to strengthen ties between the two countries.
The Indonesian delegation is led by Hon. Putu Supadma Rudana, Vice Chairperson of the Committee for Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation in Indonesia.
During the meeting, Hon. Muha highlighted the impact of the prevailing drought on Namibia’s agricultural sector, which poses a significant challenge to food security, especially for rural communities.
He highlighted the importance of leveraging Indonesia’s expertise in agricultural mechanisation and technology to address Namibia’s food security challenges, especially in the face of severe drought conditions affecting the country.
He expressed optimism that enhanced collaboration could lead to significant improvements in Namibia’s agricultural productivity and resilience.
Through collective efforts, Muha said Indonesia can assist Namibia in improving agricultural productivity, food security, and managing drought emergencies.
“Indonesia being one of the world’s major agricultural nations, makes me believe that through collective efforts, our two countries can collaborate in assisting Namibia to improve our agricultural productivity, food security, and drought emergency cases,” he said.
Apart from that, the Chairperson also underscored the significance of education and cultural exchange as pivotal for fostering a long-lasting partnership between the two nations.
“Indonesia, being one of the industrialised economies, presents an opportunity for Namibian students to study in your country,” Muha stated.
He emphasised that such initiatives would not only enhance educational opportunities but also deepen cultural understanding and friendship between the citizens of Namibia and Indonesia.
Muha also expressed his admiration for Indonesia’s textile industry and markets during his visit to Jakarta. He highlighted the potential for Indonesian textiles and clothing to find a market in Namibia and the broader region.
“Despite the geographical distance between our two countries, I am hopeful that trade experts from both nations can explore and capitalise on what our countries have to offer,” he stated.
Muha reiterated the importance of the ongoing discussions as a continuation of the strong and enduring relationship between the legislative houses of Namibia and Indonesia. He extended his deepest gratitude to Hon. Putu Supadma Rudana and the esteemed delegation for their visit.
“Today’s discussion is a testament to the robust and lasting relationship between our two legislative houses. I once again extend my deepest gratitude to you, Hon. Putu Supadma Rudana, and your esteemed delegation for this wonderful visit,” Muha concluded.
