The event attracted government officials from both countries and was organised by the Botswana-China Friendship Association (BOCFA), which was also celebrating its 15th anniversary. Speaking at the event the Ambassador of China to Botswana Fan Yong said the event encouraged and strengthened cultural exchange between China and Botswana. “China and Botswana have always enjoyed a long history of friendship and strategic partnership,” he said. Yong said they want to advance and develop the construction of a community with a shared future in the new era.
For his part, Minister of International Relations Dr Phenyo Butale said the event marked the jubilee and robust highlight of the relationship between Botswana and China. He said the event reflected a shared position for a prosperous future. Butale added that since 1975 the two nations' relations have grown stronger in various fields as a result of cooperation, understanding, and friendship. He highlighted that China has consistently supported Botswana through sponsorship of Batswana students who study in China.
“The provision of scholarships to our students to study in China is a perfect example of how the scholarship prepares the youth of Botswana. These partnerships allow us to gain valuable knowledge and skills that benefit our nation,” he said. He emphasised that as a new government, they are in a hurry to create jobs and industrialise because there is no time. Butale also commended BOCFA for fostering exchanges between Botswana and China in the past 15 years. He said as a government they are committed to supporting BOCFA endeavours and promoting bilateral relations.
The celebration also included cultural performances from artists from both nations like Oriental Performing Arts Group, Beijing Dance Drama and Opera Theatre, and Mafitlhakgosi just to name but a few. BOCFA executive chairman Miles Nan indicated that the performance on the night was not just a cultural presentation but also a symbol of the deep friendship between Botswana and China. “Through this performance, we hope the people of both nations gain a deeper understanding of each other’s history and vibrant traditions,” Nan pointed out.
