H M Sultan Haitham highlights investment, people-to-people ties with Botswana

Gaborone, Botswana – His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik has underlined the importance of joint investment projects that create employment and deliver broad economic benefits for both Oman and Botswana, as the two countries seek to deepen their emerging partnership.

His Majesty made the remarks at an official dinner banquet hosted by President Duma Gideon Boko of Botswana at the Presidential Headquarters in Gaborone on Wednesday in honour of His Majesty’s state visit.

In his address, His Majesty expressed appreciation to President Boko, the Government and people of Botswana for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him and the accompanying delegation.

His Majesty described his first visit to Botswana as “a special occasion” and an important milestone in the growing friendship between the two countries.

“Our visit reflects a sincere desire to get to know Botswana and its people better, and to strengthen the bonds between our two nations,” His Majesty said.

His Majesty noted that despite the geographical distance between Oman and Botswana, the two countries share common values, including a commitment to peace and stability, dialogue, mutual respect and development that creates opportunities for future generations.

Referring to the growing bilateral relationship, His Majesty welcomed the expansion of diplomatic ties and steps being taken to strengthen mutual representation.

His Majesty also highlighted partnerships emerging between institutions and the private sectors of both countries, as well as agreements and memoranda of understanding reached between the two governments.

“The agreements and memoranda of understanding reached between our governments, including those to be signed during this visit, provide a solid foundation from which we can expand our cooperation and create lasting opportunities for our people,” His Majesty said.

On investment, His Majesty stressed that joint projects should serve wider economic and social objectives.

While such projects are important for generating employment opportunities, His Majesty said their significance goes beyond financial returns, with the aim of ensuring that their benefits are shared as widely as possible in both Botswana and Oman.

His Majesty also emphasised the importance of cultural exchange and mutual understanding in building lasting relations between nations.

President Boko, in his address, welcomed His Majesty and described the visit as an important milestone in strengthening relations and expanding cooperation between the two countries.

He said the visit provided an opportunity to lay stronger foundations for bilateral ties and explore new areas of partnership, affirming Botswana’s commitment to developing the relations.