Windhoek: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah appointed retired Wing Commander Alex Lunyazo Tukuhupwele as Namibia's High Commissioner-Designate to India on Monday, tasking the former air force officer with the responsibility of promoting and protecting the country's interests.According to Namibia Press Agency, in her remarks at the commissioning ceremony at State House, Nandi-Ndaitwah urged Tukuhupwele with executing his diplomatic mandate with integrity, discipline, sound judgement, and patriotism as he prepares to assume his posting in New Delhi. Nandi-Ndaitwah reminded the newly appointed head of mission to lead with a clear focus on Vision 2030, emphasising that Namibia must intensify efforts to accelerate development outcomes as outlined in the sixth National Development Plan (NDP6)."You assume office at a decisive moment in our national journey. With only a few years remaining toward the attainment of Vision 2030, Namibia must intensify efforts to accelerate development outcomes under the sixth Natio nal Development Plan," the president stated. She emphasised that special attention should continue to be given to agriculture and food security, youth empowerment, quality education and skills development, sports and creative industries, health and social welfare, as well as land, housing and sanitation.Nandi-Ndaitwah reiterated that economic diplomacy is a cornerstone of Namibia's foreign policy, and urged the new ambassador to promote trade expansion, attract sustainable investment, open new markets for Namibian products, and facilitate partnerships that contribute meaningfully to national development. She also reminded him of his expectations, urging him to articulate and defend Namibia's positions on regional, continental, and global issues while contributing to peace, stability, and international cooperation.In response, Tukuhupwele expressed his gratitude to the president for the trust shown in him through his appointment to serve in India, promising to perform his duties with integrity, diligence, and professionalism. He emphasised that he would build upon the strong foundation established by his predecessors and be guided by government policies to promote Namibia's economic growth and development. "I wholeheartedly accept this assignment and shall execute it to the best of my ability. I will not be starting by laying the foundation, but will add to the building blocks that were already started by my predecessors," he said.