19 Mar 2017

The Ministry of International Affairs and Cooperation wishes to inform that the Government of the Republic of Botswana and the State of Palestine signed a Joint Communiqué establishing diplomatic relations on 8th March 2017, in New York.

The Joint Communiqué was signed by Botswana’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, His Excellency Mr. Charles Ntwaagae and His Excellency Dr Riyad Mansour, Palestine’s Permanent Observer to the United Nations.

Currently, the State of Palestine is recognised by one hundred and thirty-seven (137) countries. Botswana extended recognition of the State of Palestine on 19 December 1988.

The State of Palestine has diplomatic relations with over 100 countries and is a State party to over 50 Conventions, Treaties and Protocols.

The establishment of diplomatic relations with Palestine is a critical step that will open avenues for deepening collaboration with Botswana on the political and socio-economic spheres.

It will also promote friendship, mutual understanding and solidarity with the Palestinian people. ENDS