24 Mar 2025

Japan has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Botswana’s economic growth, industrial diversification, human resource development and the achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Speaking recently during an occasion of the assumption of duty by the newly appointed Japan ambassador to Botswana, Mr Shindo Yusuke expressed a deep honour in taking up the role since Botswana was a valued partner in Japan’s foreign policy and diplomatic efforts.

He committed to work tirelessly to strengthen and deepen bilateral relations between the two nations over the coming years.

“Botswana has long been a trusted partner of Japan and I am deeply honoured to serve as ambassador. Our countries share common values rooted in democracy, peace, stability, and respect for human rights. It is my aim to further enhance these ties for the benefit of our peoples,” said ambassador Shindo.

He said Japan and Botswana had enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1966 with collaborations spanning various sectors.

Ambassador Shindo highlighted the extensive cooperation between the two countries in areas such as industrialisation, education, health, cultural exchange and digitisation.

Notably, he pointed to Japan’s long-standing involvement in Botswana’s development, particularly through its contribution to the country’s mineral resources sector.

“Since 1992, Japan has sent volunteers through the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) programme, supporting initiatives in education, sports and various other fields,” he explained and further stated that in 2008, Japan established the Geological Remote Sensing Centre in Botswana to assist with mineral exploration and technical training, making Botswana the only country in Africa to host such a facility. Ambassador Shindo said Botswana and Japan had worked together on issues such as nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and human rights. “Together, we strive to make the world a safer and more peaceful place,” he said and explained that Botswana had been instrumental in supporting Japan’s candidacies within various multilateral forums.

Minister for State President, Mr Moeti Mohwasa congratulated ambassador Shindo on his appointment as a testament to the trust his country placed in him to strengthen bilateral ties between Botswana and Japan.

“We welcome your appointment and we stand ready to collaborate on all matters that will advance the mutual interests of Botswana and Japan,” said Mr Mohwasa.

He reiterated Botswana’s openness to discussions aimed at addressing challenges and opportunities for cooperation as well as its willingness to tap into Japan’s technological expertise, skills and knowledge to bolster industrialisation and achieve its ambitious economic and social development goals. 

The minister made a plea to Japan, to continue offering scholarships and on-the-job training opportunities to enable young Batswana to acquire critical skills for the workforce or start their own enterprises.

“Japan’s support over the years has been instrumental in Botswana’s development, and we are grateful for that,” he concluded. ENDS