At midday Latvian time on Monday 17th March at the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia in Sweden, diplomatic relations were formally established between Latvia and Botswana. A Protocol on the establishment of diplomatic relations was signed by the Ambassador of Latvia Artis Bertulis and the Ambassador of Botswana Naomi Ellen Majinda.
Botswana and Latvia share a common interest in the development of tourism and in cooperation within the broader context of the European Union, given the possibility of Latvia becoming a member of the EU in the near future. Both countries have up to now enjoyed successful cooperation through the United Nations.
Botswana is a parliamentary republic in southern Africa. It obtained its independence from the United Kingdom in 1966. The country's official language is English. Of Botswana's inhabitants 15% are Christian, while the remainder practise local traditions. Botswana is rich in natural resources, including diamonds, copper, nickel, salt, coal, iron ore and silver.