High Commissioner for Botswana meets Minister of Economic Development

Saturday, 26 April 2014 00:54 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

A discussion between High Commissioner for Botswana Lesego Ethel Motsumio and Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa took place yesterday in Colombo.

Special attention was drawn at this discussion to a program for effecting direct imports of diamonds, gems and jewellery produced in Botswana to Sri Lanka. Gems and jewellery produced in Botswana were hitherto imported to Sri Lanka via Africa. Direct imports of these merchandise without intervention of a third party will accrue benefits to both countries and on the other hand will further strengthen the economic ties between them. The gem and jewellery industry in Sri Lanka was subjected to discussion and it was explained by Minister Rajapaksa that mining is carried out in Sri Lanka as an environment-friendly industry. High Commissioner Motsumio in turn explained the progress achieved in economic, investment and agricultural sectors in Botswana which was appreciated by Minister Rajapaksa. A host of government officials including Deputy Minister of Economic Development Susantha Punchinilame were present at this discussion.