Botswana hails Ethiopia's multi-party democracy

Gaborone July 12(ENA)-- The president of Botswana Festus Mogae has lauded Ethiopia's constitutional multi-party democracy.

President Mogae said " I wish to pay tribute to the Ethiopian government for allowing a multi- party democracy to take root in the country."

Mogae made the remarks at a bouquet he hosted in honor of Prime Minister Meles here on Thursday.

The president also lauded the efforts geared by the government towards boosting the country's economy and enhancing the capacity of its people to build a better future.

Botswana sees with much appreciation Ethiopia's stern endeavors to tackle poverty and under development, Mogae noted.

He said Ethiopia has pursued responsive polices of governance and addressed internal differences in a constructive way.

"This is good as it is the only way to ensure that resources are directed to vital task of economic and social development " Mogae said.

Mogae also noted that by offering the historic city of Addis Ababa for the seat of the African Union (AU), Ethiopia has once again demonstrated its strong commitment to the sprit of pan.

Meles said on his part that Ethiopia has been doing everything in its power during the past years to consolidate its bilateral relations with Botswana, the prime minister said.

He also stressed the need to do more to establish clear cooperation between the two countries in the economic, social and cultural spheres.

Ethiopia would leave no stone unturned to ensure that there will be maximum possible cooperation between the two countries, he said.

Prime Minister Melese is expected to visit the Botswana Meat commission in Lobatse and Jwaneng Mine on Friday.

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