CGTN|Published
Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Botswana's President Duma Gideon Boko at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Tuesday, with the two heads of state announcing the elevation of bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.
During their talks, Xi called for stronger cooperation in trade, the digital economy, agriculture and education, urging both sides to take full advantage of China's zero-tariff treatment for all African countries having diplomatic relations with China.
On mining cooperation, Xi put forward a four-point proposal, emphasising the principle that African resources belong to Africa, mutual benefit, high-quality development, and a fair and open business environment.
Boko reaffirmed Botswana's commitment to the one-China principle, and welcomed greater Chinese investment and cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.
The talks followed a welcome ceremony held for the visiting president earlier in the day, during which a 21-gun salute was fired in Tiananmen Square and a military band played the national anthems of both countries.
CGTN