Is there against the background of the arguments a best strategic position for Namibia?
Rumours that South Africa has unduly influenced Namibia in this process may seem likely at a superficial level. However, the rest of SACU signed and thus the real reason cannot be South African political power. One will need to investigate the role of Namibia’s connection to the Mugabe government and China’s strong entry into the region to find the real reasons why Namibia has not signed. With much at stake and many parties involved trade negotiations (as is the IEPA between the ACP countries and the EU yet to be signed by Namibia) is a path with many obstacles. For the best interests of this country the signing of an IEPA conducive to ensuring and supporting a stable and wealth-creating economy in Namibia is urgent. Clearing the current obstacles should be of the highest priority to the EU and Namibia.
