This is the President’s maiden travel to a foreign country following his inauguration on April 1.

President Masisi noted that BotswanaandNamibia’sbilateral relations were from far back.

He also said the visit was to pay respects and pledge Botswana’s allegiance and friendship to Namibia.

Mr Masisi explained that the two neighbouring countries had cooperatedintermsofeconomic development through the Trans Kalahari Corridor.

“We will do all it takes to ensure that the Trans Kalahari Corridor project becomes a reality,” he said.

President Masisi thanked NamibiaforgivingBotswanaa dry port facility.

Mr Masisi also assured President Geingob of his government’s support for Namibia’s ruling party (SWA P O).

He also said his government was working tirelessly to ensure that Namibian refugees in Botswana were repatriated home.

“We do not see them as refugees anymore. This is why we have taken a decision to revoke their refugee status as we see that there are no threats,” he explained.

President Masisi further affirmed Botswana’s support as Namibia would be taking over SADC chairmanship in August.

He also said Botswana would assume the SACU chairmanship this year, therefore they would always be further talks and bilateral relations.

For his part, President Geingob said Botswana was a beacon of peace to be emulated and paid tribute to the fourth president Lt Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama.

He wished him a peaceful retirement, adding he had worked tirelessly for the SADC agenda.

He further said Botswana was a friend of Namibia as shown in the economic cooperation on the Trans-frontier corridor.

He also said the Namibian nationals were willing to welcome their brothers, who had been refugees in Botswana, back home. ENDS