21 Jan 2026

Forty-five years ago, Botswana and Türkiye established diplomatic relations, which focused on trade, investment, education and technical assistance, among other things.To commemorate the 45th anniversary, on Tuesday, Türkiye held a photo exhibition, which summarised key bilateral developments since 1981. The exhibition showcased historic documents and photographs highlighting key milestones in the bilateral relationship.
Among the exhibits were a document signed by Botswana’s former Permanent Representative to the United Nations, the late Joseph Legwaila, concerning the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Also on display was a congratulatory message to Botswana’s third president, Dr Festus Mogae on his re-election; a message commemorating Botswana’s 30th independence anniversary as well as a letter of compliments to the late former minister of foreign affairs, Mompati Merafhe on his assumption of office.
The exhibition also featured historic photographs of former minister of foreign affairs, Phandu Skelemani, images of the current Minister of International Relations, Phenyo Butale during his visit to Türkiye.
Speaking at the event, Türkiye Ambassador to Botswana, Ahmet Akay said relations between the two countries had developed significantly since 1981, following the opening of the Turkish Embassy in Gaborone in 2014.
Prior to that, the Turkish Embassy in Pretoria was accredited to Botswana.
Ambassador Akay said Botswana would soon open an embassy in Ankara, Turkiye, a move he said would further strengthen relations between the two nations.
He expressed confidence that by the time the two countries celebrated 50 years of diplomatic relations, cooperation would have reached even higher levels.
“Potential areas for bilateral cooperation include mining and energy, construction, infrastructure development, education, health, agriculture and tourism,” he said.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of International Relations, Thuso Ramodimoosi said the two nations had achieved much over the years and that continued dedication and commitment would further promote sustainable development and improve the living standards of their people.
He said Türkiye had played a notable role in advancing Botswana’s development through human resource development and cultural exchanges.
“This partnership is continually broadening and strengthening Botswana-Turkiye relations, ensuring that the exchanges we build today will grow more robust and benefit future generations,” Ramodimoosi said.
He further reaffirmed government’s commitment to fostering a strategic and comprehensive partnership founded on mutual respect and cooperation.
“We reaffirm our long-standing partnership and dedication to fostering a democratic and prosperous world where everyone can freely pursue their goals and dreams,” he said. ENDS