Masisi in China: A renewed impetus for economic diplomacy

Masisi says Botswana has its eyes open going into China PIC: THALEFANG CHARLES
Masisi says Botswana has its eyes open going into China PIC: THALEFANG CHARLES

When it comes to democracy, Botswana and China have a paradoxical relationship. The former is an award winning, world renowned African democracy while the latter is an industrial powerhouse-authoritarian superpower economy whose leader has just consolidated more power around himself and will likely remain in power for the next decade or more.

In addition, the governing Botswana Democratic Party’s close ties with the Chinese Communist Party make them strange bedfellows. Yet China was President Mokgweetsi Masisi’s first choice for a state visit since assuming office a few months ago. This signals an improved and more pragmatic approach to Botswana’s foreign policy in contrast to former president Khama’s ‘megaphone-style’ diplomatic approach. Masisi seems to be more interested in economic diplomacy: he wants to intensify the employment of both state and private business apparatus to support business, trade and investment promotion between Botswana and the rest of the world.

However cringe worthy China’s internal politics are, you can’t deny the impact that this rising powerhouse has on the rest of world. Wherever the Xi Jinping bandwagon is heading in the next decade, we will need to jump on it.

Editor's Comment
Congratulations Anicia Gaothuse!

The contest had 10 beautiful young girls as finalists and unfortunately only one could wear the crown.The judges picked Anicia Gaothuse. To all those who feel their contestant should have won ahead of Anicia for whatever reason, hardly; the judges found Anicia to be the best among the best, so desist from disrespecting our newly crowned queen on social media or anywhere else, for that matter! Each of the 10 beautiful young women had supporters...

Have a Story? Send Us a tip
arrow up