Botswana’s Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe has successfully secured key investment and trade deals during a historic European mission, bolstering the nation’s global economic position.

According to the Office of the President this week, the mission focused on enhancing bilateral ties, attracting strategic investments, and positioning Botswana as a regional hub for trade, finance, and sustainable development.

During his visits to Belgium, Luxembourg, and France, Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe highlighted Botswana’s leadership in democratic governance, ethical business practices, and economic transformation.

The delegation’s efforts reinforced Botswana’s reputation as a top destination for investment and innovation, APA News reports.

As a leading global diamond producer, Botswana plays a key role in the international diamond market.

The country is widely recognised for its abundant diamond reserves, ethical mining practices, and innovative beneficiation initiatives, which enhance the value of raw diamonds through cutting, polishing, and trading.

These factors have positioned Botswana as a significant player in global markets, and the Vice President’s European mission aimed to further capitalise on this strength.

Furthermore, discussions with the Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and the Antwerp World Diamond Centre led to commitments to enhance Botswana’s position in the diamond market.

In addition, Gaolathe also held talks with the Antwerp World Diamond Centre and Belgian diamond firms “to explore joint ventures in beneficiation, cutting, and trading, strengthening Botswana’s role in the global diamond market.”

The discussions also focused on mineral beneficiation and providing digital transformation support to Botswana’s SMEs and cooperatives.

Moreover, talks with Luxembourg’s finance minister resulted in an agreement to sign a Memorandum of Understanding on financial sector collaboration at the upcoming IMF Spring Meetings.

Additionally, the Vice President engaged with fintech companies and regulatory bodies in Luxembourg to enhance Botswana’s digital banking infrastructure and strengthen its anti-money laundering framework.

The delegation also looked into opportunities for investments in green energy, transportation infrastructure, and vocational training.

In high-level discussions with French officials, Botswana’s potential in high-value diamond processing and regional trade facilitation was highlighted.