28 Jan 2019

President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi Jnauary 28 received letters of credence from Namibian high commissioner as well as ambassadors of Benin and Turkey.

In an interview following presentation of credentials, the Turkish ambassador, Ms Meltem Buyukkarakas, said her government was willing to grow its relations with Botswana. 

She said her government’s wish was to promote a cooperation that would contribute to Botswana’s development and economic diversification.

Since establishing the Turkish embassy in 2014, Ambassador Buyukkarakas said, the bilateral relations between the two countries had accelerated, but not at desired level. 

Ambassador Buyukkarakas said there was potential for Turkish investors to explore opportunities in Botswana because the country was one of the most stable, democratic and peaceful in the continent.

Namibian High Commissioner, Mr Asser Kapere, said her country was grateful for the role played by Botswana during the liberation struggle of Namibia during the 1960s. 

He said relations with Botswana included bilateral economic relations. 

He said the friendship led to many bilateral agreements in areas of health, infrastructure, education and others.

For his part, Benin ambassador, Mr Eric Saizonou, said his government wished to help  strengthen the African market. 

He said they were determined to close a bridge between the SADC region and Benin in order to achieve their goal of building the African market. 

Mr Saizonou also indicated that Botswana could learn from Benin’s agricultural experiences, adding that his country was known to be the best producer of cotton. 

He also added that Benin was willing to learn from Botswana in the areas of education and fighting corruption.

The Benin ambassador would be based in South Africa while Namibia high commissioner and Turkish ambassador would be based in Gaborone. BOPA