Govt pledges support against terrorism

Namibia will support all efforts aimed at ending extremist-inspired conflicts in Africa and throughout the world. This was said by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah during a briefing of the diplomatic corps this week. This type of conflict has been worsening, especially in Nigeria where the Islamist insurgents Boko Haram have stepped up their attacks since Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari was sworn in in May, unleashing a wave of violence that has killed more than 800 people in just two months. Nandi-Ndaitwah further said that Namibia remains committed to the realisation of the aspirations of the people of Western Sahara and Palestine to self-determination. According to her the inalienable right to self-determination of these people is recognised by the international community in United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 1514 that was adopted on December 14, 1960 and reaffirmed in several United Nations resolutions. “Namibia calls for the implementation of these resolutions,” said Nandi-Ndaitwah. With regard to Iran, she said the agreement reached on July 14 this year on its nuclear programme is commendable. “It paves the way for the lifting of sanctions and this will ultimately yield positive impact on the Iranian economy which has been dramatically affected due to economic sanctions.” She said the agreement also presents an opportunity for Iran to explore possible areas of cooperation and enhance economic relations with other UN member states. Nandi-Ndaitwah said Namibia continues to follow the political developments in Ukraine with keen interest and expressed the hope that an amicable solution will be reached as soon as possible. According to her Namibia commends the leadership efforts of the United States and Cuba in restoring diplomatic ties and the subsequent establishment of diplomatic missions in their respective countries. “Namibia continues to call for the lifting of financial, commercial and economic sanctions against Cuba.” WINDHOEK ELLANIE SMIT