MFA Press Statement: State Visit of Lt Gen Seretese Khama Ian Khama, President of the Republic of Botswana, 21-24 June 2009

The President of the Republic of Botswana, His Excellency Lt. Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, will make a State Visit to Singapore from 21-24 June 2009 at the invitation of President S R Nathan. This will be President Khama's first State Visit to Singapore and also his first visit to Southeast Asia since taking office in April 2008.

President Khama's visit reflects the excellent ties between Botswana and Singapore. Both countries are strong advocates of good governance and there has been close cooperation in this area over almost two decades. In 1993, Singapore helped the Botswana Government to set up the Botswana National Productivity Centre, which is now the leading productivity centre in Southern Africa. Botswana has thus far sent 414 government officials for training under the Singapore Cooperation Programme.

During the visit, President Khama will call on President S R Nathan and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. President Nathan will also host a State Dinner in honour of President Khama. In addition, President Khama will meet Minister for Trade and Industry Lim Hng Kiang, Minister for National Development Mah Bow Tan, and make visits to the Economic Development Board and ST Electronics. The Singapore Business Federation and Botswana Export and Development Investment Authority will also be signing a Memorandum of Understanding.

President Khama will be accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mr Phandu Skelemani and senior officials.

. . . . .

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
19 JUNE 2009