11 December, 2006
Botswana, India sign protocols

NEW DELHI - Botswana and India have signed a number of protocols that include the Avoidance of Double Taxation and Fiscal Evasion Agreement and the Programme for the Implementation of the Cultural Cooperation Agreement.

Officials said at the signing ceremony last Friday that the protocols were meant to further strengthen bilateral relations and facilitate closer cooperation between the two countries.

President Festus Mogae, held closed door meetings with Indian Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, ahead of the signings.

Earlier, Mr Mogae, was received by Dr Singh and the President Dr Abdul Kalam at the Presidential Palace.

Mr Mogae arrived to the booming sounds of a 21 gun salute before inspecting a guard of honour.

In his brief interaction with the news media, he said though he had visited India before, this was his first state visit.
He said the visit was meant to cement the already existing relations and attract investment.

After the reception, Mr Mogae, accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs Barbara Mogae, the Minister of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources, Mr Charles Tibone, who is acting foreign affairs minister and senior government officials, travelled to Raignat where he layed a wreath at the memorial of Mahtatma Gandhi, considered by many as the founder of India.

Mr Mogae was presented with a bust of Mr Gandhi and a set of books on his life. Indians foreign affairs minister, Mr Shri Mukherjee also paid a courtesy call on the President Mogae. BOPA