WINDHOEK, Oct. 10 (Xinhua) -- Namibia and Botswana have agreed to develop joint strategies to safeguard the competitiveness of natural diamonds and explore new areas of cooperation in the sector, as both countries grapple with declining revenues from the gem trade.

The agreement was reached during the Second Session of the Namibia-Botswana Bi-National Commission, co-chaired by Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and Botswana's President Duma Boko in Windhoek, Botswana's capital, on Friday.

According to the joint communique, the two leaders expressed concern over "the negative effects of the decline in diamond revenue," noting that the industry remains a key contributor to the economies of both countries.

They welcomed the Commission's decision to "develop joint strategies to safeguard the competitiveness of natural diamonds, while exploring collaborative initiatives in the sector."

Namibia and Botswana are among Africa's top diamond producers and have long partnered with international mining companies to promote the sustainable development of the industry.

Beyond the diamond trade, the two countries signed eight new cooperation agreements covering energy, employment and labor, health, culture, science and technology, and law enforcement. They also reviewed progress on major cross-border projects, including the Trans-Kalahari Railway and the One-Stop Border Post at Mamuno.

The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to regional integration and inclusive growth, emphasizing that closer cooperation is key to transforming natural resource wealth into long-term development.

The next session of the Namibia-Botswana Bi-National Commission will be held in Botswana in 2027. ■