24 Nov 2024

President Advocate Duma Boko is scheduled to undertake a two-day working visit to Antwerp, Belgium, where he will participate at the third edition of FACETS conference from November 26 to 27.

A press release from the Ministry of International Relations states that the FACETS Conferences are organised by the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC), the umbrella organisation representing the world’s oldest diamond trade hub.

President Boko will give a keynote address at the FACETS 2024, which will be held under the theme: Navigating A New Era.According to the release, the conference will bring together key stakeholders from the diamond industry and related sectors including politicians, experts, retailers and traders.

“FACETS 2024 will deliberate on the current state of the diamond industry, evolving mining practices as well as the future of the diamond industry,” states the release.

While in Antwerp, the President will tour AWDC Offices and Diamond District, visit the Diamcad Polisher and Rosy Blue Sight-holder.

The President will further hold meetings in Brussels with the Secretary-General of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), Mr Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti. He will also meet with the Prime Minister of Belgium, Mr Alexander de Croo to discuss bilateral relations and issues of mutual interest.

In addition, the release says, President Boko will meet with president of the European Union Council, Mr Charles Michel, to discuss among others the Botswana-EU relations.

President Boko will also give a keynote address at the Botswana Business forum which will explore business opportunities, strengthen partnerships and promote investments in Botswana. The forum will bring together key players in the business community. He will also meet with Batswana in Belgium.

The President will be accompanied by the First Lady Kaone, International Relations Minister, Dr Phenyo Butale, Minister of Minerals and Energy, Ms Bogolo Kenewendo and senior government officials. President Boko and his delegation will return to Gaborone on Thursday. Ends