The Brazilian government is proposing to expand the flagship naval cooperation with Namibia to include the exchange of expertise in the oil and gas industries.

Brazil's Ambassador to Namibia, Vivian Loss Sanmartin, highlighted the importance of such cooperation during a courtesy call on President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at State House.

Through the naval cooperation, the two countries undertake joint naval exercises and exchange technical expertise and knowledge in areas of maritime security.

The agreement for Naval Cooperation has been in place since 1994, which Ambassador Sanmartin said could assist Namibia in fortifying its new offshore industries.

"It is still thriving, it is still working, we still have our mission there in Walvis Bay, and there are many other areas in this cooperation that can be discussed. I know that now you have the oil and gas offshore sector, and you need more monitoring of the coast, boats, and expertise, and we are willing to help you with that. I know that there are already discussions with the Ministry of Defence about Brazil bringing the Navy expertise because in Brazil, the Navy is responsible for the security of the platforms, and this is another area that I want to draw your attention to, so please look into that."

To date, more than 1,500 Namibians have undergone training in Brazil as sailors and marine and naval officers.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah stated that the cooperation helped unlock other sectors for the strengthening of bilateral ties and commended Ambassador Sanmartin.

Ambassador Sanmartin bade farewell to President Nandi-Ndaitwah following the conclusion of her posting to Namibia as Brazil's Head of Mission.