04 Feb 2018

President Lt Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama has explained the reasons behind Botswana’s position on some international matters.

He said his government had taken the US to task over what they considered not to be in line with international protocols and expectations.

The US, he said, was the most powerful nation in the world and the responsibility that came with being the head of state in the country was huge.

Speaking at a kgotla meeting to bid farewell to residents of Mmadinare constituency recently, President Khama regretted that ever since Mr Donald Trump became the president of the US, he had made remarks that belittled the status of the White House by making threats to other countries.

He said US as the most powerful nation should not threaten others but should demonstrate love and respect towards small nations.

President Khama made the remarks after former Vice President Dr Ponatshego Kedikilwe commended him for being resolute by allowing Tibet spiritual leader Dalai Lama to Botswana to speak about the spirit of Botho although the trip did not materialise due to the latter’s ill health.

Dr Kedikilwe said President Khama was not shaken by threats made by China that it would cut financial aid to Botswana if she allowed Dalai Lama into the country.

However, President Khama added that during his tenure he condemned many countries and leaders with bad record of human rights in Africa and abroad.

President Khama stated that his administration was against the way some leaders such as Robert Mugabe and Muammar Gaddafi conducted themselves as well as North Korea and Syria.

He said the concern now was the US president, Mr Trump who has now made it a tendency to insult African countries and threaten to stop assisting them with financial aid.

President Khama stated that for a long time Botswana and US enjoyed cordial relations in many areas and would continue to be friends with the US. ENDS