WINDHOEK, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- A new United States visa bond pilot program could affect travel, tourism and business exchanges between Namibia and the United States, Namibia's Ministry of International Relations and Trade said on Saturday.

The program, introduced by the U.S. government on a temporary basis, requires certain foreign nationals, including Namibian travelers, to pay a deposit of up to 15,000 U.S. dollars for a tourist or business visa.

The U.S. government will return the full amount of the bond if the applicant complies with all visa conditions and departs the United States before the authorized period of stay expires.

"While Namibia fully recognizes the sovereign right of the United States to determine and implement its immigration and border management policies, the ministry is mindful of the potential impact that such measures may have on people-to-people exchanges, including travel for tourism, business and family visits," the ministry said in a statement.

According to the ministry, the Namibian government will engage with U.S. authorities to seek clarity on the scope, duration and practical application of the pilot program, including how it would be implemented for Namibian citizens.

The ministry added that Namibia remains committed to constructive and respectful engagement with the United States to safeguard the interests of its citizens, and said the public will be kept informed as more information becomes available. Enditem