Bahamas News
PM Davis: Botswana State Visit is ‘the growth of a deeply rooted friendship’
NASSAU, The Bahamas –– During his remarks at the Closing Press Conference for the Botswana State Visit, on September 14, 2023, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis said that it was “not merely an official visit but the growth of a deeply-rooted friendship between our nations.”
“This administration is actively strengthening its foreign policy, and the visit of the President of Botswana stands as clear evidence of this commitment,” Prime Minister Davis said during the Press Conference, held at the Margaritaville Beach Resort. “These engagements highlight our dedication to deepening existing ties and exploring new partnerships, underscoring our nation’s proactive stance in the global community.”
Among those accompanying President of the Republic of Botswana His Excellency Dr. Mokgweetsi E.K. Masisi in his delegation to The Bahamas were Cabinet Ministers and Members of Parliament: the Hon. Dr. Lemogang Kwape, Minister of Foreign Affairs; the Hon. Philda Kereng, Minister of Environment and Tourism; the Hon. Fidelis Molao, Minister of Agriculture; the Hon. Kgotla Autlwetse, Minister of Government and Rural Development; the Hon. Dr. Douglas Letsholathebe, Minister of Education and Skills Development; the Hon. Tumisang M. Healy, MP Gaborone Central; and the Hon. Dr. Never Tshabang, MP Nkange.
Prime Minister Davis pointed out that, throughout history, nations had found strength and prosperity, not just through self-reliance, but through the forging of strong friendships; and in the “complex global environment” at that time, the importance of those partnerships could not be overstated.
“Our meeting today, the dialogues of the past few days, and our future engagements are anchored in this spirit of camaraderie,” he said.
Prime Minister Davis added: “Notably, both nations stood in solidarity during the re-election of the Commonwealth
Prime Minister Davis said that their discussions had been “both wide-ranging and profound.”
“We have deliberated on mutual interests, particularly focusing on the sectors of tourism and agriculture,” he pointed out. “These areas, integral to both our economies, provide a canvas on which both The Bahamas and Botswana can jointly paint a picture of sustainable growth and development.”
“Further solidifying our commitment, I am pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between The Bahamas and Botswana,” Prime Minister Davis added.
“This MOU, comprehensive in its scope, touches upon areas including but not limited to economic development, cultural relations, tourism, environment, agriculture, health, education, and financial services.
“Through this agreement, we aim to foster deeper collaboration, leverage our unique strengths, and jointly address challenges to ensure mutual progress.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the two nations, from tourism to governance, were mirrored in the ambitions of Botswana’s Vision 2036 and The Bahamas’ Vision 2040.
“We anticipate that this visit will further consolidate our partnership and pave the way for enhanced cooperation in areas that align with the vision and aspirations of both our nations,” he said.
He added: “True friendships, as we understand them, are not static. They demand care, mutual respect, and a
Prime Minister Davis said that, as they approached the conclusion of the State Visit, he would like to convey his “deepest appreciation” to President Masisi and his delegation.
“Their presence and commitment to this friendship have been truly commendable,” he said. “While this visit might be short in duration, the bonds we have fortified will last for years.”
He added, “In the days ahead, may we look back at this time as a pivotal moment when two friends, separated by geography but united by shared values and vision, took decisive steps toward a brighter partnership.”