As Botswana's ambassador to China, Mothusi Palai has visited many places in the country over the last three years, and come to understand the many various facets of Chinese society.
The ambassador is particularly impressed by China’s rapid development, especially in the high-tech field. “China boasts advanced technologies in high-speed train, aerospace, medicine and other sectors,” Palai said, adding that he hopes his country will make similar achievements in the future.
The ambassador pointed out that China has firmly supported Botswana in its economic development and efforts to improve living standards.
So far, China has sent some 500 medical staff to the African country, treating more than 2 million patients. “I’m grateful for China’s assistance, which is of great significance to Botswana, a small country that has difficulty training sufficient medical talents,” the ambassador said, expressing hope that many Botswanan students studying medicine in China will serve their country after graduation.
China has also carried out over 40 aid and cooperation programs in the African country, including the construction of railways, houses and primary schools. Photos of these projects are exhibited in the Botswanan embassy in China. Every photo tells a vivid story of friendly exchanges between China and Botswana, Palai noted.
While he rejoices at what the two countries have achieved in bilateral cooperation, Palai hopes to deepen this cooperation in various areas including politics, economy and culture and make even greater progress, as this year marks the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The ambassador also hopes to enhance bilateral cooperation in agriculture. “Bilateral cooperation has been forging ahead with greater speed after President Mokgweetsi Masisi’s visit to China in 2018,” he said, adding that the country would like to export beef to China and welcomes investment from Chinese enterprises.
