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President Masisi was accompanied by six ministers and the First Lady. The inaugural session was preceded by the meetings of the Ministers on 27 February 2019 and senior officials from 25 to 26 February 2019.

During their meeting, the two Heads of State held discussions with the view to further strengthen and depend the bond of friendship and cooperation between Zimbabwe and Botswana.

They also exchanged views on regional, continental and international issues of mutual interests and concern.

The two leaders welcomed the following agreements and Memorandums of Understanding — the Extradition Treaty, MoU on Diplomatic Consultations, the MoU on Rules and Procedures Governing the meeting of the BNC, the MoU on Geology, Mining and Metallurgy, the MoU on Cooperation in the Energy Sector, and the MoU on Cooperation in the field of Science and Technology.

The two Presidents underscored the importance of the Memorandum of Understanding on Geology, Mining and Metallurgy in enhancing cooperation in the mining sector, especially in the diamond industry where Botswana has considerable experience and expertise.

They also noted the importance of the MoU on cooperation in the energy sector in the development and industrialisation efforts of the two countries.

The two Presidents directed the senior officials to expedite the conclusion of the outstanding agreements and MoUs by the midterm review to be held in November 2019. The two Presidents noted the need to increase volumes of trade and investments between their countries. In this regard, they directed that a business forum be convened on the margins of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair to be held in Bulawayo in April 2019.

The two President welcomed Botswana’s decision to consider joining the Kaza uni-visa system as it will assist in the promotion of tourism among the countries involved.

They also noted the commitment by Zimbabwe to support Botswana’s rhino restocking exercise. The two Presidents briefed each other on the political and economic developments in their respective countries. Botswana announced a donation of medical supplies to Zimbabwe, which Zimbabwe welcomed with appreciation and after this session, the consignment is going to be viewed downstairs.

The two leaders also welcomed the statement issued by Sadc, calling for the unconditional lifting of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe and noted Botswana’s commitment to continue advocating the removal of sanctions. The two leaders congratulated the people of Madagascar and the Democratic Republic of Congo for holding successful and peaceful elections which demonstrate the democratic maturity not only in the two countries, but the Sadc region as a whole. They noted that elections will also be held in a number of Sadc countries, including in Botswana, Comoros, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia and South Africa. His Excellency E.D Mnangagwa wished Botswana successful, peaceful, free and fair elections in October 2019.

The two leaders expressed satisfaction with the achievements made during the inaugural session of the BNC.

His Excellency President Masisi expressed appreciation for the warm welcome and hospitality accorded to him and his delegation. His Excellency President Masisi extended an invitation to his counterpart, His Excellency President Mnangagwa, to the Second Session of the BNC to be held in Botswana in 2020 at a date to be agreed through diplomatic channels.

Signed today Harare, 28 February, 2019.

I thank you Excellencies.