Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Botswana, Dithapelo Keorapetse, has lauded China for its commitment to Africa’s development.

Mr Keorapetse said this on Friday at the opening of the 4th Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning Among Civilizations in Dunhuang, China.

The event is being hosted by the Chinese Association for International Understanding and the People’s government of Gansu Province in China.

The speaker, representing delegates from Africa, highlighted China’s role as a key partner in Africa’s socio-economic transformation.

He cited infrastructural projects, technology transfer, and educational exchanges as pillars of cooperation between China and Africa.

He said, “China’s support has been instrumental in advancing Africa’s development agenda. From railways to digital innovation, our partnership exemplifies mutual respect and shared progress under the principles of the Global Civilisation Initiative.’’

Mr Keorapetse praised President Xi Jinping’s three global initiatives: the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilisation Initiative.

According to the Botswana speaker, the initiatives remain crucial even as they serve as resources for generating new opportunities for the Global South.

He highlighted China’s role in Botswana’s developmental efforts since its independence in 1966.

Mr Keorapetse also highlighted China’s instrumental role in enhancing his country’s infrastructural development and other benefits through the nations’ bilateral cooperation.

He said, “When Botswana gained independence, we had fewer than 10 kilometres of tarred roads. China aided in rehabilitating our railway system, transforming 522 kilometres of track with a $99 million interest-free loan. Beyond infrastructure advancements, there is a flourishing cultural and educational exchanges between the two nations, including the establishment of the Confucius Institute at the University of Botswana in collaboration with Shanghai Normal University. These institutes play a pivotal role in promoting the Chinese language and facilitating cross-cultural exchanges.’’

Mr Keorapetse, however, acknowledged the challenges facing multilateralism, including armed conflicts, global health crises, climate change, and the rise of nationalism, which have hindered international cooperation.

“It is for this reason that we look to China to partner with us in the Global South to mitigate the adverse effects of these global challenges. We also reiterate our commitment to continuous collaboration with China,” he said.

(NAN)