HM’s visit to Botswana to open new economic, investment horizons

GABORONE: A state visit by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the Republic of Botswana on Wednesday is expected to significantly boost bilateral relations, opening broader avenues for economic and investment cooperation between the two countries.Botswana officials described the visit as historic and comes at a time of growing momentum in relations between Oman and Botswana, with cooperation expanding beyond diplomatic ties into strategic economic sectors. Amangwe Madisakwana, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Botswana in Kuwait, who oversees relations between Botswana and Oman, said the visit carries considerable historical importance, particularly given the notable acceleration in bilateral relations over the past year.He said the growing engagement has strengthened friendship and mutual trust between the two countries, while the visit comes as Botswana pursues economic diversification, particularly in the mining and energy sectors.Oman and Botswana signed an agreement earlier this year to cooperate in renewable energy, leading to the establishment of a large solar power plant in the Maun region of Botswana, he noted.Temo Ntapu, Executive Director of Export Development and Promotion at the Botswana Investment and Trade Centre, said the visit presents an opportunity to deepen economic relations and advance diversification across sectors including agriculture, financial services, energy and mining.He said increased exchanges between the two countries and the rapid implementation of projects would contribute to Botswana’s efforts to add value to its natural resources and develop manufacturing industries.Botswana possesses significant natural resources, including copper, diamonds and coal, offering potential investment opportunities for Omani companies while supporting economic benefits for both countries, Ntapu added.Oman, under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, is pursuing economic integration through international partnerships with promising markets. Cooperation with Botswana forms part of these efforts, in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 to strengthen economic diversification, investment and international partnerships.