11 Sep 2022

Botswana and Namibia have a responsibility to contribute to SADC ideals of promoting self-sustaining development and inter-dependence among member states, President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi has said

Speaking during the inaugural session of the Botswana-Namibia Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Gaborone on Friday, President Masisi said the two countries must work hard to conclude regional projects such as the Trans-Kalahari railway line, water desalination plant and the Mamuno one-stop border post.

 “In as far as regional integration is concerned, we need to strive to conclude all the set projects as that will also foster socio-economic development of our two countries,” President Masisi added.

The President said elevation of engagements to the BNC level, with a view to further advancing bilateral agenda, created a platform for high-level political guidance to the commitments made by the two countries.

 He said Botswana and Namibia remained close friends and consequently, they continued to meet frequently at the highest poli of heads of state and government.

“At the ministerial level, we have also had several exchanges between our foreign ministers, labour and immigration ministers as well as our ministers of sport. As a result of these exchanges, we have been able to advance our cooperation and partnership in many areas,” he said.

President Masisi commended the two countries for partnering in the bid to co-host the 36th edition of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals  in 2027.

 He said to further cement this bid, the ministers responsible had signed a memorandum of agreement, which further cemented the intent to host thus reiterating both governments’ commitment.

President Masisi stated that it was pleasing to also note that a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Zambezi regional council and Chobe District Council had been discussed extensively at the senior officials level. 

He, therefore, urged officials to expedite its finalisation and signing, highlighting that the MoU would further strengthen the excellent historical relations between those regions as well as the close cooperation between the two countries. He further said there were a number of other areas where notable progress in strengthening the two countries relations was made. Ends