The Presidency Clarifies on Move for the 200 Business Delegates Accompanying President to China
By TUW
The Presidency has dismissed claims that more than 200 Namibian business representatives accompanying President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on her State Visit to China are being funded by taxpayers, saying the delegation is travelling at its own expense.
In a media statement issued on Monday, the Presidency said the business delegation consists of representatives from Namibian companies that responded to an open Expression of Interest issued by the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board. The board coordinated the business mission as part of the broader economic programme accompanying the presidential visit.
The Presidency explained that the companies are participating in the mission to explore new commercial opportunities, establish partnerships, identify suppliers, attract investment and secure export markets for Namibian products and services.
It stressed that reports suggesting the delegates’ travel is financed by the Namibian government are inaccurate, adding that all participating businesses covered their own travel and participation costs.
According to the Presidency, the participation of more than 200 business representatives reflects the private sector’s confidence in the opportunities available in engaging with the world’s second-largest economy. It noted that businesses invest their own resources in such missions because they expect potential returns through expanded markets, partnerships and investment opportunities.
The Presidency further said it is standard international practice for business delegations to accompany Heads of State on official visits, as these missions strengthen bilateral economic relations while promoting trade, investment, industrialisation and job creation.
It added that Namibia will continue using economic diplomacy to create opportunities for local businesses, expand access to international markets, attract investment and support the country’s long-term economic growth.
