06 Oct 2016

 Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development says the calisthenics team roped in from China to help with Botswana’s independence celebrations was an expression of solid relationship that exists between the two governments.
Speaking at a farewell dinner for the Chinese calisthenics trainers, Mr Thapelo Olopeng said the China-Botswana relations had been developing soundly and steadily over the past 41 years.
“Our people continue to benefit from the mutual collaboration and cooperation in various fields and Botswana greatly values this enduring friendship,” he said.
Minister Olopeng expressed appreciation to the team for helping BOT50 deliver an outstanding calisthenics performance.
“You sacrificed your time and made the Botswana 50th anniversary of independence celebrations exceptional,” he continued, further adding that the Chinese team had been in Botswana since March 2016.
He said government was grateful of the skills imparted to Botswana trainers and come next year, people would see a world class calisthenics performance led by Batswana trainers that had been working side by side with their Chinese counterparts.
Mr Olopeng further said the performance during the 50th anniversary would go down as one of the major highlights which provided colour and flair to the independence celebrations.
“This was made possible through your priceless and selfless contribution. You made us proud,” he said.
He expressed hope that the Chinese team would be taking back home memorable moments that were built during their stay in Botswana.
“While we may be separated by time and distance, nothing will obscure the important role you played in Botswana’s 50th independence celebrations,” he concluded.
Professor Wang, leader of the calisthenics team from China said it was an honour to have helped and interacted with Batswana during their stay here.
He said Batswana were friendly people and they did not have a tough time imparting their knowledge on them.
Professor Wang further said Botswana was a great country with great people who enjoyed peace and tranquillity. ENDS