20 Aug 2025

India and Botswana have continued to maintain a strong and cordial relationship since establishing diplomatic ties in 1966.

The enduring partnership, built on shared values and mutual respect, was highlighted during a courtesy call from India’s High Commissioner to Botswana, Mr Bharath Kumar Kuthati to the National Assembly Speaker, Mr Dithapelo Keorapetse on August 19. 

The meeting served as a crucial platform for both nations to explore and deepen their parliamentary and bilateral relations.

During the meeting, Mr Keorapetse emphasised the strong foundation of the two nations’ relationship, noting that it resonated deeply because Botswana, a multi-party democracy, shared principles with India, the world’s largest democracy.

He highlighted the extensive cooperation between the two countries in several key areas, including trade, investment and health, particularly the pharmaceutical sector.

He added that Batswana patients were often referred to India for specialised medical procedures, such as organ transplants.

He also noted the significant educational ties, with many Batswana students pursuing studies and capacity-building programmes in India.

In addition, he said the two countries had a history of cooperation in cultural exchanges, sport and defense.

Mr Keorapetse underscored the importance of the relationship owing to Botswana’s ongoing political transition and its commitment to safeguarding its democratic principles.

He said the country’s legislators were determined to uphold constitutional mandate by legislating for the peace and order of the country, providing oversight of the executive and representing their constituents.

He further expressed his vision to transform Botswana’s Parliament into a high-performing and independent institution, adding that a well-resourced and well-capacitated legislature was thus essential for such transformation.

“I see India as a key partner in this effort and the two countries can collaborate on capacity-building workshops covering parliamentary processes, communication and legislative roles,” he said.

Also, he highlighted the need to invest in research and development to turn Parliament into a ‘learning organisation’ that empowered both Members of Parliament (MPs) and their staff.

In that regard, he said they were looking into providing training for parliamentary staff to ensure that they could fully support the MPs.

However, the Speaker expressed concern about Botswana’s current economic challenges, particularly the downturn in the diamond industry, which had historically been the country’s economic mainstay.

“While India has been a significant consumer of Botswana’s diamonds, the current situation provides an opportunity for government to diversify its economy away from its dependence on mineral revenues.

In his remarks, High Commissioner Kuthati reaffirmed that India and Botswana’s strong bilateral relations would continue to grow.

He said his government and private sector were ready to assist Botswana in overcoming its current economic challenges.

He indicated that cooperation could be strengthened through various ministries, including Trade and Entrepreneurship, Minerals and Energy and International Relations.

He also said he was optimistic about the future of the partnership, noting that there was a lot that the two governments could do together across various sectors, including parliamentary collaboration.

He welcomed Botswana’s initiative to send administrative staff to India for training and capacity-building courses. ENDS