EU, SADC inch closer to final EPA
Friday, October 15, 2010

Senior officials of the two parties recently met in South Africa, marking the first meeting between the groups since the EU accepted the region's request that it places its solidarity ahead of any final agreement.
Four of the seven SADC-EPA states, including Botswana, signed an interim EPA last June, but this year agreed to walk in step with the remaining states in the resolution of outstanding issues. On Wednesday, EU Head of Section on Politics, Trade, Press and Information, Lena Sund, told BusinessWeek that two more joint meetings and a workshop would be held in the region and in Brussels before year end as the two parties attempt to meet the December 2010 deadlines.
Independence Day holds immense significance for Batswana as a whole. It offers a moment for reflection and celebration of the country's achievements, while also prompting introspection.We must honestly assess whether the number of years of independence aligns with the progress we have made. While there is certainly much to celebrate, there are also pressing issues that require the attention of relevant stakeholders. Many Batswana are facing...