“Botswana is an important partner for Estonia in political dialogue as well as in business diplomacy and development cooperation,” said President of Estonia Alar Karis. “We are also united by a strong belief in democracy and a world order based on rules. Estonian companies are interested in developing cooperation with Botswanian partners in the field of digital technologies, and as a state, we’re happy to share the experience of our digital state in order to jointly promote innovation.”
The visit of the Head of State of Botswana will focus on sharing Estonia’s experiences in e-governance, cyber security and digital services. The economic and educational cooperation between the two countries, strengthening cooperation in international organisations and the international security situation will also be discussed at the meetings.
The President of Botswana will be accompanied on his visit by the Minister of International Relations Phenyo Butale, the Minister of Communications and Innovation David Tshere, and the Minister of Trade and Entrepreneurship Tiroeaone Ntsima.
On Tuesday, President Alar Karis will welcome the President of Botswana at a reception ceremony in front of the Office of the President of the Republic, followed by a meeting of the Presidents and a joint press conference.
President Boko will then meet with Prime Minister Kristen Michal and the President of the Riigikogu Lauri Hussar and lay a wreath at the foot of the War of Independence Victory Column. In the afternoon, the President of Botswana will be welcomed at Tallinn Town Hall by the Chairman of Tallinn City Council Toomas Kruusimägi.
On Wednesday, the President of Estonia and the President of Botswana will participate in a business seminar aimed at showcasing the work done by Estonian entrepreneurs and discussing how Estonia can further support Botswana’s digital development. The President of Botswana will also visit the e-Estonia Showroom, Tallinn University of Technology and the Rakett69 Science Studio, where he will get acquainted with the activities of the HK Unicorn Squad.
In the evening, the President of the Republic Alar Karis, will host a state dinner in honour of the President of Botswana at the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds, followed by an official farewell ceremony on the square in front of the rooms of the Song Festival Grounds.
The President of Botswana is the first African President to pay a state visit to Estonia and the second African President to visit Estonia. In 2016, the Head of State of Benin paid a working visit to Estonia.
