Zambia and Namibia have reaffirmed their long standing diplomatic relations following high level discussions held at Charter House between Ms. Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, Permanent Secretary for International Relations and Cooperation at Zambia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and His Excellency Mr. Goms Menette, High Commissioner of Namibia to Zambia. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and reviewing progress on shared priorities between the two countries. Both sides emphasized the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic engagement as a foundation for regional stability and economic development. The discussions also reflected the historical ties and mutual trust that continue to define relations between Zambia and Namibia. This engagement marks another step in deepening collaboration across key sectors of governance and development.
A major focus of the meeting was the proposal to hold the 11th Session of the Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation in Lusaka later this year. The JPCC serves as a structured platform through which Zambia and Namibia coordinate and review bilateral agreements across various sectors. These include trade, infrastructure development, education, security cooperation and regional integration initiatives. The last JPCC session between the two countries was held in 2022, making the proposed 2026 meeting an important opportunity to assess progress and set new priorities. Both parties recognized the need to convene regularly to ensure that agreed commitments are effectively implemented and updated in line with current development needs.
Ms. Gundersen also proposed the convening of a virtual mid term review of the 10th Session of the JPCC. This proposal is intended to provide an interim assessment of the implementation of decisions taken during the previous session. The virtual format is expected to allow for timely engagement between officials from both countries without delaying ongoing cooperation efforts. Such reviews are important for identifying challenges, measuring progress and ensuring that agreed projects remain on track. The proposal reflects a practical approach to diplomatic coordination that makes use of digital platforms to support continuous dialogue. It also demonstrates Zambia’s commitment to maintaining momentum in bilateral cooperation frameworks.
During the discussions, both Zambia and Namibia acknowledged the importance of sustaining strong political and diplomatic relations that support regional integration within the Southern African Development Community. The two countries share historical bonds and continue to cooperate in areas that contribute to mutual economic growth and stability. Trade relations, transport connectivity and energy cooperation were highlighted as key areas with potential for further expansion. Both delegations expressed interest in exploring additional opportunities that can enhance economic exchange and support development goals. The engagement at Charter House reaffirmed the shared commitment to deepening cooperation in ways that benefit citizens of both nations.
The meeting also underscored the importance of structured dialogue mechanisms such as the JPCC in advancing bilateral relations. These frameworks provide a formal platform for reviewing agreements and ensuring that diplomatic commitments translate into practical outcomes. Ms. Gundersen’s engagement with the Namibian High Commissioner highlighted the value of continuous communication between partner states. It also reflected Zambia’s proactive approach to strengthening international cooperation through regular consultations and planned reviews. The discussions demonstrated that both countries are committed to ensuring that their partnership remains active, relevant and responsive to evolving regional dynamics.
The meeting between Zambia and Namibia’s diplomatic representatives marked a significant step toward reinforcing bilateral cooperation and preparing for future engagement through the upcoming JPCC session. The proposed 11th Session in Lusaka and the suggested virtual mid term review of the previous session highlight a shared commitment to accountability and progress. As both countries continue to work closely within regional and international frameworks, their partnership remains a key pillar of cooperation in Southern Africa. The discussions at Charter House reaffirmed a mutual dedication to strengthening ties that support development, integration and long term diplomatic collaboration between Zambia and Namibia.