Modi’s Moment in Windhoek: Standing Ovation Seals Historic Address in Namibia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was presented with a thunderous standing ovation and repeatedly chanted "Modi, Modi" when he addressed the Namibian Parliament on the final leg of his five-nation tour. The speech was a culmination of India–Namibia relations, a mix of shared democratic values and forward-looking cooperation.

Democracy and Shared History

Modi greeted the Namibian Parliament as a temple of democracy and forwarded wishes from 1.4 billion Indians

He recalled India's contribution to Namibia's independence, e.g., giving asylum to SWAPO's initial diplomatic mission and leading UN peacekeeping forces

The Prime Minister hailed freedom fighters and underscored India's solidarity in words and deeds

Symbolic Acts and Cultural Bonds

Modi thanked Namibia for the gift of cheetahs to India, chuckling they were "having a great time

He compared the Welwitschia Mirabilis plant to the friendship between India and Namibia, adding that the two grow stronger with time

The Prime Minister praised Namibia for having voted its first female president, comparing it to India's own success in inclusive leadership

Development and Future Vision

Modi again reaffirmed India's commitment to Namibia's Vision 2030 and Harambee Prosperity Plan

More than 1,700 Namibians have received training and scholarships from the Indians

He welcomed Namibia's decision to implement India's UPI digital payment system and joining the Global Biofuels Alliance

Sources: Times of India, News18, Free Press Journal, India Today, Moneycontrol, MSN News, Livemint