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
Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland, underscoring our shared commitment to multilateral cooperation. Additionally, our mutual support in the candidatures for the Joint Inspection Unit and the International Maritime Organisation further reflects our united front on the international stage.”
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
consistent effort to grow stronger. With this visit, we have revisited our shared goals and set the stage for future engagements.”
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.”
Bahamas News
Get your laugh on, March On, family drama by Gea Pierre, debut this weekend in Turks and Caicos
This is the sixth edition of the relays and the fourth time that The Bahamas has hosted the event, which actually made its debut in The Bahamas in 2014.
President, World Athletics, Sabastian Coe said after three very successful editions from 2014 to 2017, the World Athletics Relays has quickly become one of the World Athletics vibrant competitions, developing a culture of fun and innovation that gives it a unique flavour.
He thanked the Bahamas Government, the local World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 committee and the Bahamian people for agreeing to host the relays. However, his main thanks were to the “world’s best sprinters” travelling from all the continents to compete in preparation for the road to Paris, France, in two months’ time.
During the opening ceremony, the athletes were given words of advice from Carl Lewis, one of only four Olympic athletes to have won nine Olympic gold medals, who is widely recognized as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
He said, “Keep it simple, do not try to do anything extra. Do what your coaches said. Leave on time, leave on time, leave on time.”
The athletes and crowds were treated to the sounds and sights of Junkanoo at the end of the opening ceremony. The Junkanoo performers stuck around for the two days of competitions, playing for the sprinters as they competed on the track.
Teams competed in the Women’s and men’s 4x100m, and the women’s men’s and mixed 4x400m. A total of 14 teams at the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 automatically qualified for places at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both days of competition were important, as day two offered another chance for qualifications for those teams unsuccessful on day one.
Bahamians were made proud as the country set a new national record during the mixed 4x400m relays thanks to the efforts of 16-year-old Shania Adderley, a student of Tabernacle Baptist Academy.
The team came first in their heat on Sunday evening after not being able to gain a spot for the Paris Olympics on the first day of competition.
Other sprinters on the team included Alonzo Russell, as well as Olympic champions Steven Gardiner and Shaunae Miller-Uibo.
NASSAU, The Bahamas – During his remarks at the Opening Ceremony for the World Athletics Relays 2024, on May 4, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance the Hon. Philip Davis welcomed the special guests, athletes, officials, and “all lovers of athletics from around the world” to the Thomas A. Robinson National Stadium here in the “vibrant heart” of Nassau, Bahamas.
“This weekend, the world’s finest athletes gather on our shores to embark on a journey that is not only about speed and strength but also about dreams and determination,” Prime Minister Davis said. “From the serene beauty of our islands to the historic grandeur of Paris, this event marks a crucial path to the Olympic Games in Paris 2024.”
He added: “Here in The Bahamas, we are no strangers to world-class athletics or the warmth and exuberance that such international gatherings bring. It is a distinct honor to once again welcome the World Athletics Relays back to our islands. This event holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing a bridge between nations brought together by the universal language of sport.”
Prime Minister Davis noted that that year’s theme, “Paradise to Paris,” captured the essence of that journey.
“It is here, amidst the splendor of our sun-kissed beaches and the rhythmic sway of our palms that the chase towards Olympic glory begins anew,” he stated. “We are thrilled to offer a backdrop of unparalleled beauty, where every sprint, every baton pass, and every victory lap is set against the picture-perfect canvas of our islands.”
He added: “To our athletes, I say this: as you stand on the precipice of your dreams, ready to catapult yourself into the annals of history, know that you are part of a legacy of excellence and determination. This weekend, you are not only competitors but also ambassadors of your countries and the spirit of sport. We are especially proud of Team Bahamas, who carry the weight of their performance and the hopes and pride of our nation. You embody the spirit of The Bahamian people, and we are behind you every step of the way.”
Prime Minister said that to the international visitors, he extended “the warmest Bahamian welcome”.
“Over the next few days, as you revel in the thrill of competition, take a moment to bask in the beauty of our island,” he stated. “Discover why we proudly say, “It’s Better in The Bahamas.” Whether it’s the hospitality of our people, the tranquility of our waters, or the rhythm of our culture, you are in for an experience that captures the heart and rejuvenates the soul.”
“Let us celebrate the unity and friendship that sports foster, cheering every athlete and savoring the spectacle of human potential at its best,” Prime Minister Davis added. “I hope the races are swift, the results are inspiring, and the memories are lasting.
“Welcome to The Bahamas, the paradise where champions chase their dreams to Paris. As your host, it is my immense pleasure to declare the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 2024 officially open. Let the games begin.”
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