Former Ambassador to China, Elia Kaiyamo, has commended President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah for choosing China as the destination of her first state visit outside the African continent.

Dr. Kaiyamo described the visit as one of the most significant foreign policy engagements and reflects Namibia's commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with China.

In a statement, the former Ambassador said the President's first official visit outside the African continent, and particularly to China, sends a strong message about the strategic importance that both the Namibian government and the ruling party attach to their relationship.

The visit, Dr. Kaiyamo said, should be seen as a continuation of the strong relationship forged by the Founding President Sam Nujoma and strengthened by every Namibian President who followed.

Referring to President Nandi-Ndaitwah's emphasis on implementation under the NDP6, Dr. Kaiyamo says the President is focused on securing practical outcomes that will accelerate industrialisation and job creation and improve the quality of life for ordinary Namibians.

While underscoring the historic ties between Namibia and Africa and China, Kaiyamo said today the relations have evolved, partnering in development, trade and economic transformation.

Since independence, China has trained thousands of Namibians, invested in infrastructure and contributed to the country's national development, with Namibia supplying valuable natural resources.

Dr. Kaiyamo, however, noted the need for frank and constructive discussions. While China has benefited from Namibia's natural resources, Namibia must increasingly benefit through value addition, technology transfer, skills development, manufacturing and greater investment in productive sectors of the country's economy.

Kaiyamo stated the often-repeated principle of "win-win cooperation" should now be translated into measurable and mutually beneficial outcomes.