On 10th September 2020, Chinese Ambassador H.E. Dr. Zhao Yanbo handed over medical supplies donated by the Chinese government to the Botswana government. Hon. Kabo Morwaeng, Minister of Presidential Affairs, Hon. Dr. Edwin Dikoloti, Minister of Health and Hon. Dumezweni Mthimkhulu, Assistant Minister of Presidential Affairs were also present.
Ambassador Zhao said in his remarks that fighting COVID-19 is a major battle that concerns the health and well-being of all human being, including the peoples of China and Botswana. Confronted by the ravages of the pandemic, the two countries have tackled the virus head on and forged extraordinary solidarity in this fight with mutual support. Though China and Botswana are thousands of miles away, the shared future and friendship through thick and thin once again consolidate China-Botswana brotherhood. The fight against COVID-19 proves that solidarity and cooperation are the most effective weapons against the pandemic, and scientific response is the right way to win this battle. During the Extraordinary China-Africa Summit on Solidarity against COVID-19, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged that China will continue to support the response of African countries, and help cushion the impact of the pandemic. When China’s COVID-19 vaccines are developed and put into use, they will become global public goods and African countries will be among the first to benefit.
Ambassador Zhao pointed out that the history of human civilization is one of fighting diseases and tiding over disasters, but each challenge is the start of further progress. Therefore, we should see COVID-19 as an opportunity for the transformation of globalization and the improvement of international relations and human society. China and Botswana must uphold the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind, focus on common development rather than geopolitical competition, push for global cooperation rather than confrontation, so as to take our responsibilities for building a better world. As Botswana has entered a new normal featuring both pandemic control and economic recovery, China is willing to work with Botswana to plan for bilateral cooperation in the next phase, help local communities resume work and production, and pursue a sustainable development.
Minister Morwaeng spoke highly of China’s efforts to fight the pandemic, and expressed sincere gratitude on behalf of President Masisi to President Xi jinping as well as the Chinese government and its people. He said that despite facing challenges of her own, China was the first to extend a helping hand to Botswana with batches of medical supplies. During this difficult time for both nations, the bilateral bond has manifested in the form of material and technical assistance. The mutual respect and people-to-people friendship between Botswana and China have truly passed through the test of the pandemic. As sincere partners and good brothers, Botswana will work together with China to elevate the relations to a new height based on this strong foundation.
Ambassador Zhao and Minister Dikoloti signed the Handover Certificate on behalf of the Chinese government and the Botswana government respectively. Daily News, BTV and other local media covered the event.
