European Union-Botswana Partnership Dialogue

The European Union Ambassador to Botswana and SADC, Petra Pereyra, together with Ambassadors and Representatives of Embassies of Belgium, Bulgaria, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain and Sweden met with Honourable Minister of International Relations Dr. Butale and representatives from various government ministries for the European Union-Botswana Partnership Dialogue. This was the third time the EU-Botswana Partnership Dialogue was organised under the Samoa Agreement between the Africa, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States and the EU, which Botswana signed in December 2023.

The Dialogue provided an important opportunity to reaffirm the strong partnership between the European Union and Botswana since 45 years ago and to exchange views on future key priorities in the bilateral relationship.

During the exchanges Ambassador Petra Pereyra highlighted the natural partnership between the European Union and Botswana, united by shared commitments to democratic governance, peace and security, sustainable development, and a rules-based international order, as well as the steadfast partnership provided by EU and EU Member States supporting Botswana in diversifying, growing the economy and creating jobs.

Honourable Minister Dr. Butale underlined the shared commitment to further strengthening relations between Botswana and the European Union, anchored in shared values around democracy, rule of law, human rights, and sustainable development. Minister Butale furthermore expressed appreciation for EU support to regional integration and peace and security and highlighted the importance of strong and close bonds between Botswana and the EU in times of geopolitical turmoil.