New United States of America ambassador to Namibia Randy Berry said he hopes the recent visit of his country’s first lady will lead to something fruitful for both countries.
After the closed-door meeting with President Hage Geingob at State House on Tuesday, Berry noted there is no hidden interest in the African continent as some are saying the visits are because of the discovery of strategic natural resources on the continent and also to promote human rights.
“I look at these visits as a way to get things in order. Senior-level visits and dialogues are very broad, it’s not really driven by a single issue or a single set of issues,” said the ambassador.
The focus, he said, is looking at what the future holds for the two nations, especially in supporting democratic systems and institutions in Namibia.
“I believe in the great value of strong, truthful, honest, bilateral relationships and making sure that we build up those strongest relationships as possible. It’s possible to have good positive relationships with a number of layers. So that’s what I’m committed to working on,” noted Berry.
He added the meeting was an opportunity to talk about the current state of the relationship, which Berry thinks is sound.
According to him, Namibia is an exciting country in the region.
President Geingob shared his excitement about the United States of America’s first lady Jill Biden’s visit to Namibia in February to discuss issues based on empowering women and youth.
“She spoke about our democratic culture,” said the President.
“I was impressed by her, knowing the positions we have, she did not touch anything that could have caused disruptions. When she came to Kenya, she talked about it, so that’s how things are done. I was very impressed with her vision and everything,” Geingob told Berry.
Geingob also stated he was honoured that Biden chose Namibia and Kenya as her destinations out of 55 countries.
Biden’s visit to Namibia and Kenya follows the US-Africa Summit late last year where she hosted a two-day spousal programme.
Presidency spokesperson Alfredo Hengari said the meeting shared some priorities, where Geingob urged the US ambassador to pursue the green energy space.
Also, Hengari noted there is an inspiration for the two nations to increase cooperation and continue investing in social sectors.
Berry was appointed as US ambassador to Namibia last month.
Caption: Howdy… President Hage Geingob received a courtesy visit from US ambassador Randy Berry on Tuesday.
Photo: Presidency