Namibia's International Relations Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has suggested resolving the enduring Orange River border issue within the framework of the bilateral talks between South Africa and Namibia.
Speaking during the third Session of Bi-National Commission (BNC) of the two countries, she urged the assembled council members in Windhoek, Namibia, to engage in discussions aimed at finding a mutually acceptable solution and resolving the long-standing dispute.
"One important outstanding issue between us is the question of the Orange River boundary between Namibia and South Africa, and it is my fervent hope that this issue is comprehensively dealt with during this session, to enable us to complete the process that was started in 1993 between the two countries," Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
The border along the Orange River, about 600 km long, continues to be a contentious issue between Namibia and South Africa. The latter lays claim to the northern bank and thus the entire water area, while Namibia insists on a median line boundary for the river.
Nandi-Ndaitwah called for the resolution of the dispute at the opening session of the BNC, which was established in 2012 as a pivotal forum for boosting bilateral ties, coordinating diplomatic stances, and discussing shared concerns on regional and global issues.
On October 13, Namibian President Hage G. Geingob and Nandi-Ndaitwah received the South African delegation, which arrived to the neighboring country to take part in the bi-national commission.
"There is a lack of progress with regard to the Orange River Boundary Negotiations. As we continue discussing the challenges as comrades and good neighbors, I have no doubt that we will jointly resolve outstanding issues amicably," President Geingob said in his opening remarks.
More than ten years ago, the countries established the Bi-national Commission to enhance their bilateral cooperation, given their shared historical, political, cultural, and economic ties, the president recalled.
Geingob noted that Namibia has signed over 100 bilateral agreements with South Africa since 1994. This amount surpasses that of any other bilateral partner Namibia has engaged with, he said, underscoring the significance of their long-standing relationship. He also expressed confidence that the recommendations and conclusions from the recent meeting would enhance cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, tourism, energy, and other areas.