A Swapo Party MP in the National Assembly, Tobie Aupindi, said the August House should unanimously call on the United States of America to lift the economic, financial, and commercial blockade against Cuba and its people.
Dr. Aupindi added that the Assembly also urges the U.S. to immediately remove Cuba from the list of alleged state sponsors of terrorism.
Last week, Aupindi tabled a motion in the National Assembly calling on the United States to lift the more than 60-year-old blockade against Cuba and for it to be removed from the list of states allegedly sponsoring terrorism.
Motivating the motion, Dr. Aupindi reminded MPs of the strong and historic ties between Namibia and Cuba, noting the sacrifices and support Cuba gave to Namibia during the struggle for independence.
At the same time, he pointed out that Namibia also enjoyed cooperation with the United States, particularly through programmes such as the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which provided vital health support.
But Aupindi said tensions between the U.S. and Cuba can be traced back to the Cold War era, underlined by the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1978.
"However, despite the Cold War ending some 34 years ago, the blockade on Cuba remains in place today. Today, some 63 years later, the blockade remains enforced, causing economic devastation in Cuba and great opportunities being missed by both the United States and Cuba. The current status quo is not sustainable for either country."
He stressed that the blockade caused catastrophic economic losses to the island nation.
Since its imposition, Cuba is estimated to have lost more than one trillion U.S. dollars in opportunities and growth, losses he described as unsustainable, especially for a small economy like Cuba.
Dr. Aupindi concluded by saying Namibia stands ready to offer its mediation and play a meaningful role in promoting lasting peace, coexistence and economic opportunities between the United States and Cuba.
Debate on the motion will resume on Tuesday after it was adjourned by the leader of the official opposition, Imms Nashinge.