Botswana and Mozambique recently committed themselves to work together more closely towards a goal to promote cooperation in trade and investment areas by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Speaking at the ceremony in Gaborone, Minister of Trade and Industry Dorcas Makgato-Malesu, stated that the trade cooperation to promote fair and mutually beneficial trade between the two are part of the MoU. She added that the MoU also involves technical cooperation to develop the exchange of experiences and technological cooperation between the public and private sector in areas of mutual interest.
“The bond that the two countries are cementing today must be nurtured and be made to effectively work for our people,” she stated.
Makgato-Malesu further stated that the MoU also includes training and capacity building, development of SMMEs and also closer cooperation between the chambers of commerce of the two countries. She added that the two governments continue to work together to achieve the objectives of the MoU and that the cooperation will deepen and expand as they explore new areas of cooperation.
“I believe it will provide a platform for the private sector and take advantage of the trade and investment opportunities in the respective countries,” said Makgato-Malesu.
She also revealed that the Botswana Government is aware that, to be competitive in both regional and trade markets, there is a need to continue to create a conducive environment for the private sector investment growth. She said Botswana’s respect for democratic principles and adherence to the rule of law have endured, meaning that the present Botswana as a cosmopolitan hub is safe for people of different races and religion and to conduct business freely.
“We do have hubs that are envisaged that the private sector will play a key role in their development and operation,” she explained.
Her Mozambican counterpart, Minster of Industry and Trade, Armando Inroga, echoed Makgato-Malesu’s words that the MoU is a huge milestone for Botswana and Mozambique to enhance economic development for the benefit of the two nations. Inroga added that signing the MoU is a step that he believes will be a long and fruitful cooperation between the two countries in many years to come.
“Through our efforts and commitment, we will be able to achieve more and continue to develop even stronger relationships between the people of Mozambique and Botswana,” he said.
Botswana and Mozambique share a lot in common, including common aspirations, founded on strong democratic principles. The MoU followed soon after President Ian Khama’s State visit to Mozambique.
