President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday addressed the National Assembly of Botswana in Gaborone, becoming the first Indian Head of State to do so. In her historic address, President Murmu highlighted the deep-rooted friendship between India and Botswana and called for closer cooperation between the two countries in areas such as education, health, technology, renewable energy, trade, and human resource development.
The President was received at the Parliament by Speaker Dithapelo L. Keorapetse, Deputy Speaker of the Assembly, and the Leader of Opposition. The National Assembly of Botswana is the sole legislative body of the country’s unicameral Parliament, consisting of the President and the Assembly, with the Ntlo ya Dikgosi – a council of tribal chiefs -serving as an advisory body.
Addressing the House, President Murmu described Botswana as a “shining example of democracy, good governance, and effective leadership,” commending its peaceful transitions and inclusive development since independence in 1966. “Your remarkable progress, from modest beginnings to a modern, confident, and prosperous society, is an inspiration to everyone,” she said.
The President said that India and Botswana share a “natural friendship built on mutual trust, respect, shared values, and a belief in democracy and human dignity.” She noted that the partnership between the two nations has deepened over the decades, reinforced by both historical collaboration and the promise of future growth.
Underscoring the importance of human resource development, President Murmu said India takes pride in its capacity-building partnership with Botswana. “In the last decade alone, more than a thousand young friends from Botswana have studied and trained in India, returning home with new skills, expanded knowledge, and lasting friendships,” she said.
Highlighting the importance of youth and sustainable growth, the President said both nations must focus on creating opportunities that enable young people to contribute to nation-building. “We need to ensure robust and durable economic growth that is also environmentally sustainable,” she added.
President Murmu also pointed to emerging opportunities in areas such as renewable energy, digital innovation, pharmaceuticals, and mining. She invited business communities from both countries to work together to fully harness the potential of the India-Botswana economic partnership.
“India today is the fastest-growing major economy in the world,” the President noted, adding that the Government’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047 aligns well with Botswana’s Vision 2036. She emphasized that the two nations can play a key role in promoting inclusive global development and a fairer, more sustainable world order.
Referring to Africa as the “continent of the future,” President Murmu said India and African nations can jointly unlock the potential of their 2.8 billion people – comprising 40% of the world’s population. She underlined that India’s G20 Presidency in 2023, which secured the African Union’s permanent membership, reflected India’s commitment to strengthening South-South cooperation.
“India’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 and Africa’s ‘Agenda 2063’ present an opportunity for active collaboration among our countries. Together, we can unleash our true economic potential and lift millions out of poverty,” she said.
The President also acknowledged the contributions of the vibrant Indian community in Botswana, who have been part of the country’s development journey for over a century. “We express our gratitude to the government and people of Botswana, who have embraced our Indian-origin brothers and sisters with warmth and openness,” she said.
Earlier in the day, President Murmu visited the Diamond Trading Company Botswana (DTCB), where she was received by Minister of Minerals and Energy Bogolo Kenewendo and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Dr. Phenyo Butale. She was briefed on the diamond industry’s contribution to Botswana’s economy and toured the facility’s diamond sorting and valuation operations.
The President also paid her respects at the Three Dikgosi Monument in Gaborone, honouring the three tribal chiefs-Khama III of Bangwato, Sebele I of Bakwena, and Bathoen I of Bangwaketse – who played pivotal roles in Botswana’s independence movement.
President Murmu concluded her address with a message of friendship and optimism, saying, “The friendship between India and Botswana is not just between governments – it is between peoples who share the same hopes for a peaceful and prosperous future. Let us work together to build a partnership that enriches both our nations and contributes to the greater good of the world.”