In a statement, BDP Chairman Youth Wing, Simon Moabi said “We note with disappointment the defiance and total disregard for our foreign policy principles demonstrated by Former President Lt. General Dr. Seretse Khama Ian Khama by honouring The Dalai Lama’s invitation to India.”
The BDP National Youth Wing said the former President’s actions has the potential to hurt Botswana economically. He said Khama’s visit has the potential to anger China which advocates for One China Policy and considers the Dalai Lama a separatist.
“Botswana is a landlocked country which depends on minerals and customs revenue as major sources of government revenue. Our economic survival is dependent on other countries, the slightest sign of disregard towards their core values can bring our economy to its knees,” said Moabi.
He added that “Our relationship with China has the potential to create jobs, skills transfer and infrastructure development and as such cannot afford unnecessary distractions to derail the cordial relations the two states enjoy.”