Dr.Jong-Dae Park, Korea’s ambassador to Botswana, told delegates at a Global Expo in Gaborone that the trade relationship between the two countries is set to strengthen.  

“Korea and Botswana will further strengthen their long-standing friendship, with the business sector continuing to be a key area of co-operation,” said Dr. Park, adding that events such as Botswana’s Global Expo are a great opportunity for businesses from both countries to strengthen their ties. He also noted how the countries’ economic success is enviable.

“About four decades ago, both Korea and Botswana were among the poorest countries in the world that had experienced colonial rule. However, both our countries now proudly present themselves as economic success stories, which is quite unique in world history,” he said.

Statistics have revealed that Korea is the 7th country worldwide to have achieved the ‘30-50 club’ status, which means having nominal per capita GDP of over 30 thousand dollars with a population of more than 50 million. Botswana boasts a GDP per capita of 17,000 US dollars in real terms and has been acknowledged for its efficient governance and ranking as Africa’s most politically stable nation.

Korea is also the 9th largest trading nation, having achieved $901 billion in trade – and it is now seeking to broaden its horizons and extend products and services into Botswana.