He stated that Nigeria, being the second largest economy and the most populous country in Africa, presented lucrative trading opportunities for Botswana products.The Nigerian delegation was in Botswana for the promotion of bilateral relations subsisting between the two countries.The current contact was aimed at enhancing a system of bilateral cooperation between Botswana and Nigeria in terms of education, science and technology, arts and culture, tourism and wildlife, trade and investment and finance.

Mr Skelemani said he was hopeful that the three-day session would also herald a substantive dialogue on bilateral cooperation between the two countries. He appealed to both parties to ensure that all the agreed commitments will be fully implemented in accordance with the schedule. "This will certainly give meaning to our future development efforts and aspirations to improve the living standards of our peoples."He commended the Nigerian government for peace initiatives in the Niger Delta saying the amnesty programme initiated by the late president, Yar' ADua was bearing fruit as evidenced by the signs of peace returning to that region."The smooth transfer of power following the passing on of Mr Yar Adua, the electoral reforms and other initiatives geared towards a free, fair and credible election in Nigeria next year are also encouraging developments for which President Goodluck Jonathan and his team must be commended," he said.

On other issues, Mr Skelemani stated that Botswana was home to a number of Nigerian professionals working in various government departments as well as the private sector, particularly in the fields of health and education."Their contribution to the socio-economic growth and development cannot be over-emphasised.For this reason, we shall remain forever grateful to the government and people of Nigeria for their generosity despite the many challenges they too face and continue to face back home", he said.
For his part, the Nigerian minister of foreign affairs and also head of the delegation, Mr Alhaji Aliyu Idi Hong said Botswana and Nigeria continued to take steps to further enhance their cordial relationships in the areas of trade and investment.The meeting discussed, amongst others, customs, solid minerals mining, fossil fuels, public works and communication sectors, consular cooperation as well as tackling the problem of drug and human trafficking. [BOPA]