Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Namibia, India’s High Commissioner to Namibia, Rahul Shrivastava, said India is showing strong interest in importing uranium and investing in Namibia’s recent oil and gas discoveries.

Speaking to ANI, Shrivastava confirmed, “We are looking at export of uranium from Namibia to India and there have been recent oil and gas discoveries in Namibia, that is also an area of interest.”

He also mentioned that India is exploring opportunities in critical minerals, which are essential for modern technology and green energy projects.

India and Namibia Share Deep Historical Bonds

Shrivastava highlighted the long-standing friendship between the two countries. He noted, “The relationships between India and Namibia are very good because we started long before Namibia got independence in 1946 when India was one of the first countries to support Namibia's independence.”

He explained that the diplomatic ties developed into strong economic cooperation after Namibia gained independence. The High Commissioner said PM Modi’s visit, the first in 27 years, will focus on trade, investment, and strategic partnerships.

Strengthening Defence and Capacity Building

India is also looking to expand defence ties with Namibia. Shrivastava said, “We will be discussing about defence cooperation because Namibia wants to procure defence items from India.”

He further added that capacity building—training and skill development—is one of the key pillars of the India-Namibia partnership and will be enhanced during this visit.

A Busy Schedule for Prime Minister Modi in Namibia

PM Modi arrived in Namibia on Tuesday (local time) after wrapping up his visit to Brazil. His trip to Namibia is part of his ongoing five-nation tour, which included Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, and Brazil.

Shrivastava explained, “Prime Minister Modi, he comes tomorrow early morning, and the visit is for one day. It's a state visit, but the programme is very full.”

According to him, PM Modi will hold delegation-level talks with Namibian President Netumbo Naisit the Heroes Acre to honour Dr Sam Nujoma, address the Namibian Parliament, and meet members of the Indian community in Namibia.

Project Cheetah 2 Likely on the Agenda

Shrivastava confirmed that cheetah conservation will be part of the discussions. He said, “Discussions will yes surely take place, and the cheetahs are thriving well in India, but the numbers that are there are not enough to have a good ecological balance.”

He added, “We need more of cheetahs, so at some point in time, and I'm sure the Prime Minister's visit will surely lead to Project Cheetah 2 from Namibia.”

India’s Role in the Global South and Ties with Africa

Shrivastava praised India’s global leadership. He said, “India's leadership in the Global South is well recognised, and Africa is a very strong partner for India in this.”

He pointed out that Namibia participated in all three ‘Voices of Global South’ summits, led by India during its G20 presidency. According to Shrivastava, PM Modi has always supported Global South cooperation, and Namibia is a key partner in that effort.

PM Modi Looks Ahead to Stronger Ties

Before leaving India for the multi-nation tour, PM Modi had shared his expectations. In a statement, he said, “I look forward to meeting President H.E. Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and chart a new roadmap for cooperation for the benefit of our peoples, our regions and the wider Global South.”

He also added, “It will be a privilege to also address the Joint Session of Namibian Parliament as we celebrate our enduring solidarity and shared commitment for freedom and development.”