09 Feb 2023

Ambassadors of France and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) yesterday presented their credentials to President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi.

  Receiving letters of credence from French ambassador, Mr Olivier Brochenin, the President said Botswana wanted to use France’s big economy to leverage  its  beneficiation in the diamond value chain.

He stated that it was important for Botswana to play its  part in the industry through her diamond capacity.

“We want to play a role through enhancing our upskilling while drawing lessons from you in our quest to explore value chain development,” he said.

 Dr Masisi said France had a lot to offer as it was one of the world’s beauty and fashion powerhouses noting that one French company was using Botswana diamonds in its fashion outlets.

The President said Botswana also sought a long-term relationship in the arts and culture field through the Oodi College of Applied Arts.

In addition, Botswana was keen to deepen cooperation with France in the military field especially since the two nations had overlapping policies on peace and stability promotion, he said.

Dr Masisi said France and Botswana shared mutual values of republicanism, respect to rule of law and mutual respect for human rights.  

Ambassador Brochenin pledged more assistance to Botswana in its transition to a digital and knowledge based economy as well as attainment of high income status.

Mr Brochenin said his country was ready to support Botswana in the arts field to facilitate the National Arts Council.

Receiving credentials from the DRC envoy, Ms Emillie Mushobekwa, Dr Masisi said Botswana was aware of the challenges the DRC faced and that he was hopeful for a peaceful resolution.

“DRC has a potential powerhouse if only it could be given space to do what it ought to do for its people. You have got mineral wealth. That you could export. I wish that for you,” he said.

President Masisi said Botswana was looking forward to strengthening relations with DRC especially in exchanging values the two held dear.

“The extent to which we can influence yourself to borrow from us that which you find useful, we are more than ready to assist. We want you to be very successful,” he said. ENDS