Namibia and Botswana continue to strengthen ties to ensure peaceful and prosperous coexistence.

The two countries Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation and Foreign Affairs met at Katima Mulilo ahead of the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Zambezi Regional Council and Chobe District Council.

The joint visit started in Katima Mulilo, to be followed by the Chobe District on Thursday for the official signing of the MoU.

The agreement focuses on, among others, environment and waste management, shared river land resources, culture, and sports.

The agreement is expected to assist each country in achieving its economic development objectives. 

"By sharing notes on each country's policies and efforts towards the same, the two councils will leverage their combined strengths on this objective and through targeted programmes and actions," said Botswana's Commissioner for the Chobe District, Onalenna Sechele.

Namibia's Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Peya Mushelenga, is hopeful that the agreement will lead to closer and more practical cooperation with substantive outcomes for communities along the common border.

"Namibia warmly welcomes this heightened level of cooperation and remains committed to its full realisation. Such instinctive collaboration between our sister countries significantly contributes to the consolidation of good neighbourliness, friendship, and amicable and peaceful coexistence."

Botswana's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Lemogang Kwape, stated that the twinning agreement will enhance cooperation and improve livelihoods.

"I urge the Chobe district council and the Zambezi regional council to work closely to ensure that this corporation yields positive results. We have undoubtedly raised the hopes and expectations of our people, and to that end, Botswana is ready to intensify efforts to ensure that the two regions achieve the desired aspiration."

About the previous sour relationships between the two countries, Zambezi Governor Lawrence Sampofu said much has since changed.

"A task is upon us to ensure progress and ensure that the directive issued by our respective heads of state is fully implemented. I believe we are experiencing a peaceful environment and are happy with the way our two governments are handling cross-border matters."

The visit also included closed-door discussions from the security cluster, the tourism sector, and engagement with traditional authorities.