Remove border restrictions, Pohamba tells Jacob Zuma

PRETORIA – The slow implementation of some agreements on energy between Namibia and South Africa and the free flow of movement between the countries remain a concern, President Hifikepunye Pohamba said yesterday.

‘Although progress is noted and appreciated… [there is] concern regarding the slow pace of implementation of some of the agreements,’ Pohamba said in opening remarks ahead of discussions in Pretoria.He said in light of the upcoming 2010 Fifa World Cup, the benefits to South Africa’s neighbours were hindered by restricted cross-border movement.’The potential will not fully materialise if the matter of cross-border operations by Namibian tour operators is not addressed,’ he said.Pohamba also urged the South African government and power utility Eskom to continue its commitment regarding energy co-operation, particularly as power supply shortages continued to plague both countries.In his opening address, President Jacob Zuma reassured Pohamba and his delegation that South Africa was ‘ strongly committed ‘ to the development of the region and the continent.’We can never understate the need and importance of our duty to improve the lives of your peoples.’We are also acutely aware as a larger economy we have a greater responsibility in the quest to eradicate poverty and improve the lives of our people,’ said Zuma. – Nampa-Sapa