Chinese Ambassador to Namibia Zhao Weiping said that Chinese investments would never threaten Namibia's sovereignty or create dependency.

He said such concerns are misplaced, stating that China's cooperation with Namibia is based on mutual respect and equality.

Ambassador Weiping said that China's growing economic footprint will not lead to financial or political influence; the ambassador said Beijing has no interest in undermining Namibia's independence.

"Whether a close relationship will compromise your sovereignty, I don't think our Namibian friends need to worry about that," he said. "Looking back at our partnership, you may realise we, the Chinese government, emphasise very much the respect of other countries' sovereignty."

The ambassador stated that non-interference in internal affairs and respect for territorial integrity guide China's approach to development cooperation. 

He added that China's own history of invasion and humiliation under foreign powers has reinforced its commitment to national sovereignty, and this is a principle it shares with Namibia.

"Although China was not a colony of Western powers, we were invaded and humiliated by other countries. We understand how precious sovereignty, independence, and freedom are to a nation; there will be no reason for us to disrespect the sovereignty of our African friends."

The ambassador commended Namibia's government for maintaining its independence and safeguarding sovereignty since 1990, saying China recognises Namibia's record of managing foreign partnerships on its own terms.

While Beijing's role in Africa has faced scrutiny over alleged "debt-trap" diplomacy in some countries, Chinese officials maintain that its projects are demand-driven and negotiated under equal terms.

The ambassador said cooperation with Namibia will continue to focus on infrastructure, energy, and industrialisation, with both governments ensuring transparency and mutual benefit in ongoing and future projects.