By Kuvee Kangueehi Windhoek The Namibian Head of State Hifikepunye Pohamba last week addressed a Joint Session of the Congolese Parliament and strongly emphasized the role parliaments in Africa should play in the quest for genuine democracy and social and economic development for Africans. During his address, Pohamba highlighted the strong bonds of friendship and solidarity that exist between the Congolese and Namibian people. The Namibian Head of State also recalled and commended the vital role played by the Congolese people in supporting the struggle for Namibia’s freedom and national independence. “I wish to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Congolese people for their unflagging support and solidarity during the struggle for freedom and national independence.” Besides holding private talks, Pohamba also co-chaired with his Congolese counterpart a working session of the Official Talks with the delegations of the two countries. The two Heads of State underscored the important need for their respective countries to strengthen cooperation in areas such as energy, mining, fisheries, agriculture, water, trade and investment, as well as education and culture. In order to strengthen and diversify their bilateral relations, the two parties signed a number of agreements and memoranda of understanding. These agreements are in the field of mines, mining industries and geology. A cooperation agreement in the sectors of maritime fishing and aquaculture as well as air services was also signed. At the end of his stay, President Pohamba expressed his profound sense of gratitude and deep appreciation to the Government and people of Congo for the warm welcome accorded him and his delegates. The president extended an invitation to his counterpart, who accepted, and a date will be agreed upon through diplomatic channels. President Pohamba’s three-day visit to Congo was at the invitation of the Congolese President, Denis Sassou Nguesso. Pohamba was accompanied by First Lady Penehupifo Pohamba, Minister of Foreign Affairs Marco Hausiku, Minister of Mines and Energy Erkki Nghimtina, deputy minister of trade and industry Benard Esau, and were received by Namibia’s Ambassador to the Republic of Congo, Ringo Abed.