23 May 2016

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has commended the European Union (EU) for the development support it provides Botswana.

Speaking during the EU day commemoration, Dr Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi said the invaluable support goes a long way in complementing government’s efforts in addressing the current development challenges, particularly that of human resource development.

She said the signing of the 11^th European Development Fund (EDF) national indicative programme (2014-2020) between the EU and Botswana was a clear indication of Europe’s determination to continue its assistance to Botswana’s quest towards economic diversification.

The programme covers three sectors in education, public sector reforms, measures in favour of civil society, and is in line with Botswana’s national priorities.

Furthermore, the minister said economic diversification and global competitiveness remained major challenges to sustaining Botswana’s development growth, hence in this regard, government has identified education and training as critical  areas for economic development and technological change, with a need to strengthen the links between education and employment.

“Meanwhile, EU Ambassador to Botswana and SADC, Mr Alexander Baum said the EU had supported Botswana with numerous projects and programmes over the years and currently one of the few development partners left.

He however said he saw the relations between the EU and Botswana evolving in future more around economic cooperation and less around development cooperation.

Mr Baum said the EU and six SADC countries, among them Botswana, had scheduled the signature of the Economic Partnership Agreement soon. ENDS