Presidents of the world’s 2nd strongest economy and the highest diamond-producing African nation discuss expanding cooperation

Presidents of China and Botswana enter a business partnership

China and Botswana have agreed to deepen their relationship, with President Xi Jinping and Botswana’s President Duma Gideon Boko announcing a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership during talks in Beijing on Tuesday.

• China and Botswana have agreed to establish a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.
• President Xi Jinping emphasized expanding cooperation in agriculture, technology, education, and utilizing China’s zero-tariff policy for Africa.
• Xi advocated for African mineral resources to primarily benefit African countries and promoted local mineral processing and green technology transfer.
• Botswana’s President reaffirmed support for the one-China principle and encouraged Chinese investment in Botswana.

This accord aligns with significant historical milestones for both nations, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of Botswana’s independence and the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China.

President Xi said Beijing was ready to expand cooperation with Botswana in agriculture, livestock farming, digital technology and education.

He also urged both countries to make greater use of China’s zero-tariff policy for African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Beijing to strengthen trade ties.

During the discussions, the president of China stressed that Africa’s mineral resources should benefit African countries.

Similar to the recent $140 million manufacturing plant in Botswana, which is set to be built by the Hong Kong-based mining chemicals importer Kemcore, XI called for greater cooperation in processing and moving minerals further up the value chain.

The Chinese head of state also pledged support for mining plans tailored to African needs and the transfer of suitable green technologies.

In response, Botswana’s leader welcomed closer economic ties, encouraging more Chinese companies to invest in his country.

He also reaffirmed the country’s support for the one-China principle, noting that he would oppose any separatist moves toward “Taiwan independence” and any external interference in China’s internal affairs.

Before the meeting commenced, the Chinese president and his wife, Peng Liyuan, hosted Boko and his wife, Kaone Boko, in the Great Hall of the People.

Following the meeting, both presidents witnessed the signing of several cooperation agreements covering security, the Belt and Road Initiative, green minerals, healthcare, and human resources.

Credit: Business Insider Africa