GABORONE, Sept. 29 (Xinhua) -- Botswana Foreign Minister Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi said Thursday that the African country and China need each other at a reception celebrating the 68th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.
At the event, Venson-Moitoi said a lot of African countries have benefited from China's development. She also praised China's contribution to the development of education, technology and economy in her country.
"The most important thing is that we must have sincerity, and I know we both need each other," she said.
Chinese Ambassador to Botswana Zhao Yanbo made a speech at the event about China's achievements in economic and social development, as well as China-Botswana relations.
"In this global village, along with our growing national strength comes greater responsibility. China has played an active role in maintaining world peace and promoting global development," he said.
Zhao said a record number of about 140 Botswana students have gone to China to study this year thanks to the sponsorship of the Chinese government or at their own expenses.
Bilateral ties have witnessed a steady growth since the establishment of diplomatic relations 42 years ago, he added.
