GABORONE, Botswana, CMC—Bahamas Prime Minister Phillip Davis has held talks with President Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, which the visiting head of government has described as a “significant milestone in bilateral relations” between the two countries.
“Our productive discussions with President Masisi and his delegation have laid the groundwork for a stronger partnership between our countries. These initiatives reflect our dedication to mutual growth and underscore the vast potential for cooperation that benefits both our peoples,” said Prime Minister Davis, who is leading a delegation to the African country until March 22.
“The meeting, characterized by mutual respect and a shared vision for the future, resulted in the announcement of a series of strategic initiatives and memorandums of understanding (MOUs) aimed at fostering cooperation across key sectors,” according to a statement issued by the Bahamas delegation.
It said that a centerpiece of this collaborative effort is the signing of an MOU between the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) and the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
“This agreement will enhance educational exchanges and joint research in agricultural and marine sciences, contributing to the sustainable development of both countries.”
The statement said Prime Minister Davis has successfully secured scholarship opportunities for Bahamian students, demonstrating his government’s commitment to leveraging international relationships to benefit Bahamians.
Addressing critical healthcare needs, Prime Minister Davis highlighted ongoing discussions with Botswana to explore models for alleviating the shortage of nurses in The Bahamas, akin to successful partnerships with countries like Ghana.
“This approach underscores a commitment to improving healthcare services through exchanging knowledge and resources,” the statement said, adding that “on the table for both countries is an economic cooperation of a proposed MOU between The Central Bank of The Bahamas and the Bank of Botswana.
“This partnership will facilitate the exchange of expertise and technology in Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), leveraging The Bahamas’ Sand Dollar and Botswana’s SmartBots initiatives to spur advancements in the digital economy.”
The statement said that the meeting also set the stage for partnerships between the financial institutions of both nations, aimed at unlocking investment opportunities and diversifying financial services. Plans for joint conferences to explore collaborative financial solutions were discussed, promising to strengthen economic ties further.
In a move to enhance cooperation in the digital economy, the two countries agreed to collaborate on developing a regulatory framework for digital assets.
“Drawing from The Bahamas’ experience with the DARE Act of 2023, this initiative aims to bolster Botswana’s digital economy strategies and secure robust investment avenues.
“Moreover, establishing a diamond depository in Grand Bahama was explored as a strategic initiative to facilitate Botswana’s diamond exports to the United States. This collaboration involves the Grand Bahama Port Authority and the Freeport Container Port, aiming to enhance trade links and foster economic cooperation.”
The statement said that the meeting between Prime Minister Davis and President Masisi has opened new avenues for collaboration, reinforcing the ties between The Bahamas and Botswana and setting a positive trajectory for future cooperation and mutual development.
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