The first place I wanted to visit outside of Africa was Cuba, that’s why I’m here, noted Namibian President Hage Gottfried Geingob on arrival to the José Martí International Airport on August 14, where he was received by Deputy Minister of Foreign Relations Rogelio Sierra and Namibia’s ambassador on the island, Jerobeam Shaanika.
“We are great friends,” added the leader, currently embarking on his first official visit to Cuba as Head of State, after assuming the presidency of Namibia last March 21.
Today, Tuesday, August 15, after paying tribute to Cuba’s national hero, José Martí, he will hold official talks with Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, President of the Councils of State and Ministers. Hage Gottfried Geingob’s visit will extend through August 17. Cuba and Namibia currently maintain excellent bilateral relations, established in 1990 by Sam Nujoma, the country’s founding father.
Previously, Gottfried Geingob occupied the position of Prime Minister of Namibia from 1990-2002 and Vice President of the South West Africa People’s Organization, since 2007 until his election as president.
In July the head of state welcomed the Cuban Five anti-terrorist fighters Gerardo Hernández, Ramón Labañi no, Anto nio Guerrero, Fernando González and René González, during their visit to Namibia, South Africa and Angola.
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