Botswana in fragile balancing act at EPA talks

As it plays host to the six SADC EPA states in key discussions in Gaborone this week, Botswana is expected to negotiate common ground and foster regional cohesion ahead of further discussions with the EU around August/September.

Botswana, economically the largest of the four countries that signed an interim EPA (iEPA) last June, will use this week's meeting to nudge South Africa, Namibia and Angola towards proposals that could see the finalisation of EPA negotiations with the EU.