Namibia Engages Russian Export Center on Trade and Investment Cooperation

Namibia Engages Russian Export Center on Trade and Investment Cooperation. Namibia’s Minister of International Relations and Trade, Hon. Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, has held discussions with representatives of the Russian Export Center (REC) as part of ongoing engagements aimed at strengthening international trade and investment relations. The meeting took place in Moscow on 15 January 2025.

The REC delegation was led by its Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Veronica Nikishina. REC is a state-owned institution that supports Russian non-commodity exporters in accessing international markets and advancing trade-related initiatives worldwide.

During the meeting, Minister Ashipala-Musavyi highlighted Namibia’s commitment to expanding its trade and investment partnerships. She emphasised the country’s focus on value-added trade, as well as the importance of improving market access to support sustainable economic development. The Minister noted the role of strategic partnerships in advancing Namibia’s international trade objectives and fostering mutually beneficial economic engagement.

The discussions explored areas of potential cooperation between Namibia and the Russian Export Center. REC representatives expressed interest in working with Namibia on joint projects, capacity-building programmes, and trade facilitation initiatives. These areas were highlighted as possible platforms for collaboration between Namibian institutions and Russian exporters supported by the center.

The engagement formed part of broader efforts to strengthen dialogue between Namibia and international partners on trade and investment matters. The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on cooperation frameworks and identify shared interests aligned with their respective trade priorities.

The Russian Export Center plays a role in promoting exports of goods and services that are not based on raw commodities, focusing on diversification and value addition. Its mandate includes supporting exporters through financial and non-financial instruments, as well as facilitating international business partnerships.

The meeting concluded with both parties acknowledging the importance of continued engagement and dialogue. The discussions underscored Namibia’s approach to building diverse and balanced trade relationships, while exploring opportunities that support economic growth and development through international cooperation.