Cunene: The Ambassador of the Republic of Namibia to Angola, Leonard Iipumbu, reaffirmed on Saturday the excellent ties of friendship and solidarity that characterize the bilateral relations between the people of the two countries. The ambassador's statements came during his visit to the province of Cunene. According to Angola Press News Agency, the diplomat emphasized the long-standing relationship of friendship and brotherhood between Angola and Namibia, which dates back to their joint struggle for liberation. Ambassador Iipumbu highlighted the importance of further strengthening and deepening the cooperation between the two nations. The ambassador noted that the political relations between the MPLA of Angola and SWAPO of Namibia were crucial to Namibia's independence. He also mentioned the collaborative efforts of the Namibian Armed Forces (PLAN) and the People's Armed Forces for the Liberation of Angola (FAPLA) that contributed significantly to this achievement. After Angola's independence from Portugue se rule, the country continued to support Namibia in its fight against apartheid until the pivotal Battle of Cuito Cuanavale. Ambassador Iipumbu recalled the role played by FAPLA, with Cuban support, in securing Namibia's independence in 1990. He also pointed out the familial and cultural ties between the peoples of southern Angola and northern Namibia, which include shared customs, linguistic features, and traditions. The ambassador stressed the importance of maintaining and enhancing good relations in various sectors, including politics, economics, trade, health, education, and social action. He also underlined the significance of security and border control agreements, which aim to ensure peace and territorial integrity. During his seven-day working trip to Cunene, the ambassador's itinerary includes meetings with the local government, visits to Namibian prisoners at Peu Peu prison, and the Memorial to the Victims of the Cassinga Massacre in Huíla. Before returning to Luanda, the diplomat will spend two days working at the Namibian consulate in Ondjiva. Angola and Namibia share a 1,376-kilometer border across several provinces and regions, highlighting the geographical and strategic importance of their relationship.
