Honourable Minister Motowane,
Other distinguished members of the Botswana Government,
Excellencies,
Representatives of the business communities of Botswana and Sweden,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Let me start by saying how pleased I am to be here in Botswana, and to attend this seminar on sustainable business solutions.

Sweden and Botswana may be different in many ways,
but we share a common commitment — a commitment to finding solutions to the environmental and social challenges facing the global community. Needless to say, these challenges can only be addressed effectively through increased cooperation.

The business community plays a crucial role in this context. Business is a primary driver in a global world. It can help to ensure that markets, commerce, technology and finance advance in ways that benefit economies and societies everywhere.

I am proud that corporate social responsibility has become an integral part of the activities of many Swedish companies.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
Advances in technology and innovation are a key feature of Swedish industry. We have seen an increase in the number of new companies specialising in technologies that contribute to sustainable development. Swedish companies, some represented here today, have developed cutting-edge technology in areas such as electrification, mining and wastewater treatment, as well as efficient transport solutions, communications and medical treatment, to name but a few.

Sweden and Botswana share a long and successful history of collaboration dating back to when Botswana gained independence in 1966. We have a long tradition of exchanging ideas.

Relations between our two countries are dynamic. In recent years, we have witnessed new forms of collaboration, based on long-term commitments in a wide range of sectors. We enjoy a relationship built on the principle of mutual benefit, added value, common interests and shared responsibilities for sustainable growth.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
Let me conclude by underlining how important you are — as businessmen, officials and authorities — in managing the global and local challenges we face today. This conference is an occasion for you to share your knowledge and experiences, and identify areas for further cooperation.

I hope that you will enjoy the rest of the business seminar and use this opportunity to strengthen and deepen relations between our two countries.

Thank you.