Namibian-German relations from 1990 to 2002
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Date
2003
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Abstract
The problem was to determine the nature and scope of the post-independent relationship between Namibia and Germany as well as to try and explain this relationship and to establish what the future holds for this relationship. It was determined that Namibia and Germany, as a former colony and a former colonizer have established incredibly strong links which could not be easily severed. Consequently, post- independence, the two countries forged very strong bilateral relations through which other areas such as politics, economics, culture and social relations could be addressed
Namibia and German historical linkage compared to Germany's other former colony is unique in the sense that a large number of German descendants post 2nd World War, established themselves on this south western country on the African Continent and this focused the attention of the German Government on the colony. Without exception, all ruling political parties of the German Government at particular points in time, never lost sight of this fact and Namibia therefore remained a special case. German's special affinity for this colony resulted in the constant reference to this relationship as either "unique or special"
Either family or business links sustained the historic fate in the relationship between Namibia and Germany even after Germany lost its colonial status over the colony. The well-grounded bilateral relations between the two states resulted in an enthusiastic cooperation that covers a wide range of sectors of the Namibian society. The historical connection remained a fact that influenced the post-independence relation between the two countries and currently, Germany is the largest donor and contributor to the development of Namibia. Hence, Namibia benefits more than any other country on the African Continent from German grants, loans and aid in the sectors of economics, culture, social upliftment and infrastructure reconstruction
Description
Includes bibliography
Keywords
International negotiations, International economic cooperation