The inaugural session of the Namibia–Cuba Intergovernmental Commission on Bilateral Cooperation is underway in Havana, the capital city of Cuba.

Speaking at the opening of the session, Minister of International Relations and Trade Selma Ashipala-Musayvi said the establishment of the Commission is a reflection of a shared commitment to build on historical solidarity and advance relations through practical, mutually beneficial cooperation.

Ambassador Ashipala-Musayvi noted that Namibia and Cuba’s relations have long been anchored in solidarity, but the current global environment, characterised by geopolitical tensions, weakening multilateralism, and rising protectionism, calls for a shift toward concrete economic partnerships and expanded bilateral trade.

She urged the technical experts attending the session to be innovative and strategic in identifying initiatives that can boost trade and investment, open new avenues of collaboration, and strengthen economic ties between the two countries.

The Commission is expected to serve as a structured platform to identify priority sectors, develop joint projects, and ensure that cooperation delivers tangible, lasting benefits to the people of both nations.

The inaugural meeting ends on Wednesday.