During talks with Botswana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Lemogang Kwape, the diplomats discussed, among other topics, development issues, political and economic relations, cooperation at international fora, and the security situation in the region. 

Deputy Minister Paweł Jabłoński pointed to a number of areas, such as digitisation of public services, modern solutions for medicine and health care, food production and processing, the mining sector, as well as green technologies, including renewable energy sources, where Poland’s modernisation experiences could contribute to the implementation of Botswana’s plans to restructure its economy. In this context, the deputy foreign minister stressed Poland’s readiness to share its experiences and know-how, and noted that it would be a way to unlock the great but still untapped potential in Polish-Botswanian economic relations. 

Another important topic both sides addressed in all meetings was the war in Ukraine and its global implications. In this context, Deputy Minister Paweł Jabłoński outlined the measures the Polish authorities have taken to mitigate the consequences of the global food crisis caused by the Russian aggression against Ukraine, and to combat Russia’s false narrative. Foreign Minister Kwape emphasised the understanding and support for Poland’s stance on the hostilities in Ukraine, and commended the Polish authorities and Poles for their commitment to providing assistance to Ukraine.

The visit was accompanied by a mission of Polish economic entities, organised in cooperation with the Polish Chamber of Commerce and attended by representatives of the ICT, banking, agricultural, energy, and mining sectors.

“We perceive Botswana as a success story and a country of rapid development to which Poland would like to contribute in the future,” said Deputy Minister Paweł Jabłoński when launching a Polish-Botswanian economic forum. He added that Polish entities see the great potential and opportunities for economic cooperation in many areas, including in agriculture, agri-food processing, digitisation, and green technologies. The event provided an opportunity to hold a series of B2B meetings with local entrepreneurs and business environment institutions, and to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between Asseco Data Systems and Botswana Innovation Hub.

The visit to Botswana also came as an opportunity to hold consultations with Jan Sadek, EU Ambassador to the country. During the meeting, the participants discussed the most important issues regarding the EU’s cooperation with Botswana.

 

Łukasz Jasina

MFA Press Spokesperson