By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to deepening diplomatic and economic ties with Botswana during his State Visit and the 6th Session of the Botswana–South Africa Bi-National Commission in Gaborone.
Ramaphosa delivered remarks at a State Banquet hosted by Botswana President Duma Boko on the first day of the two-day visit to the country.
Addressing dignitaries, ministers and guests, Ramaphosa said the visit represented far more than a formal diplomatic engagement.
“This is no ordinary State Visit. It is a coming together of brethren from the same family. We are one people, born of the same soil and bound together by a shared history,” Ramaphosa said.
Ramaphosa used the occasion to express condolences following the passing of former Botswana president Festus Mogae, whom he described as “a gentle giant, an illustrious African and a global statesman.”
“Your loss is our loss. He will leave an indelible mark,” Ramaphosa said.
He praised Botswana’s leadership over the years and commended Boko for steering the country towards modernisation, development and prosperity.
“We commend the vigour and vision with which you are leading Botswana on a path of modernisation and towards a future of sustained development and prosperity, “he said.
Ramaphosa assured Botswana that South Africa would remain a reliable neighbour and partner as the two countries continue to deepen bilateral relations.
Ramaphosa added, the two countries “continue to experience the dynamism of the ties between our peoples forged through a common history, heritage and geography”.
Looking ahead to the Bi-National Commission which will be held on Thursday, the President emphasised the need to seize the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area and to strengthen cooperation within the Southern African Customs Union.
“Our fortunes are intertwined and the possibilities of our cooperation are endless.”
“The levels of trade and investment between our two countries are substantial. There is much scope to expand commerce between our countries and to achieve greater balance in the volume and value of trade.”
“The sixth session of the Bi-National Commission [BNC], which we will co-chair…will deliberate on the many and diverse areas of bilateral cooperation that underpin our collaboration,” he said.
Earlier on Wednesday, International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola called for deeper and more practical cooperation between South Africa and Botswana, as the two countries convened the Ministerial Session of the Sixth BNC in Gaborone.