On the sidelines of the conference Hon. Dr. Phenyo Butale held a bilateral meeting with Japan’s Foreign Minister, Mr. Takeshi Iwaya. The discussions touched on the upcoming 60th anniversary of Botswana–Japan diplomatic relations in 2026, highlighting the longstanding friendship and strong economic ties shared between the two countries.
The meeting emphasized ongoing collaboration in priority areas such as renewable energy and the Sowa water supply project. 

Hon. Dr. Butale shared Botswana’s aspirations to diversify its economy, highlighting Botswana’s focus on massive infrastructure development, and extended an invitation for Japanese companies to explore investment opportunities in Botswana.
He further appealed for Japan’s assistance in addressing shortages of essential medicines in Botswana and called for deeper cooperation in the health sector. 

Hon. Dr. Butale also highlighted Botswana’s strong desire to strengthen collaboration in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to empower young people with critical skills, as well as to expand scholarship opportunities offered to Botswana.
The two Ministers also discussed the possible signing of a visa abolition agreement for Botswana, as well as an investment agreement to facilitate increased investments from Japan.

In closing, Hon. Dr. Butale extended an invitation to Minister Iwaya to visit Botswana and experience the country’s rich natural heritage, including the renowned Okavango Delta.