Khama appreciates Aussie support
Botswana is honoured to host the Governor General of Australia as this marks an important milestone in the relations of the two countries. This was said by the President, Lt Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama at a state luncheon hosted for the visiting Australian Governor General, Ms Quentin Bryce on Monday in Gaborone. The President explained that Batswana were saddened by major losses and untold suffering caused by the recent spate of bushfires in the state of Victoria, which claimed many lives and reduced many properties to ashes.
“This being the first ever visit by an Australian head of state, it helps to reinforce the strong ties which subsist between our two countries and peoples,” he noted.
President Khama highlighted that the countries’ warm and cordial relations are underpinned by the two countries’ common commitment to democracy, good governance, the rule of law, peace and security and the continous pursuit of sustainable development.
In recognition of strong ties and fruitful cooperation, he mentioned that Botswana found it necessary to open a resident diplomatic mission in Canberra in 2003. In addition, he said that Botswana values this enduring friendship and is very appreciative of the generous assistance as a result of which Australia had become a very significant partner in the country’s development.
He said that over the years, Australia had opened the doors of her world- renowned universities for Botswana’s young men and women to acquire knowledge.
“Currently there are about 267 Batswana students studying at different universities in Australia,” President Khama said. Furthermore, he noted that Botswana was particularly grateful for the six postgraduate development scholarships offered by Australia in the field of health, intended to fight HIV/AIDS.
President Khama acknowledged the technical and financial assistance Botswana had received from Australia towards the establishment of Botswana’s first ever plant quarantine, which was intended to enhance the country’s adherence to international standards.
“We have also looked to our Australian friends to assist in bushfire management.” President Khama said that because Botswana had the same weather conditions as Australia, she also experienced bushfires, although, not of the same magnitude.
He mentioned that given the country’s lack of capacity to manage this problem, the threat of bushfires was of great concern to Botswana as her second largest revenue earner tourism was dependent on the untouched natural environment.
He said it was to that effect that Australia sponsored experts from the New South Wales Rural Fire Services to undertake a scoping mission to Botswana, assess the problem and develop solutions.
President Khama also commended Australia for its contribution to sports development and assistance towards the establishment of a trade library for the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
In addition, he thanked the Australian mining companies operating in Botswana for employment and wealth creation and playing a major role in the local stock market.