The 23rd session of the Bostwana – Zambia Joint Permanent commission on defence and security

The session was held under the theme ‘CROSSING THE BRIDGE TO ENHANCE PARTNERSHIP IN DEFENCE AND SECURITY’ , this is an unmistakable attestation of the excellent and cordial relations that exist between the Republics of Botswana and Zambia”, said Minister for Defence and Security and Chairperson- Honourable Thomas Kagiso Mmusi, MP.

The purpose of the Commission is attaining and maintaining a safe and secure environment for our peoples.
The Botswana delegation was led by Minister for Defence and Security and Chairperson- Honourable Thomas Kagiso Mmusi. The delegation included Minister for Justice, Honourable Machana Ronald Shamukuni, MP, Minister for Labour and Home Affairs, Honourable Annah Mokgethi, MP, Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Defence and Security, Ms Botlhale Makgekgenene, High Commissioner of the Republic of Botswana to Zambia, H.E. Alpheus Matlhaku and other Senior Government officials.

The Zambian delegation was led by Minister for Defence and Co-Chairperson, Honourable Ambrose Lwiji Lufuma, MP. The delegation included Minister for Home Affairs and Internal Security, Honourable Jacob Jack Mwiimbu, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Mr Dickson Matembo, Charge d’ Affaires of the Republic of Zambia to Botswana, Mr Brighton Litula as well as other Senior Government Officials.

The Commission deliberated on issues of mutual interest in the areas of Defence and Security, which have occurred in the two countries since the last session; peace and stability continued to prevail in both countries.

The Commission also reviewed progress made in the implementation of the resolutions of the 22nd session, held from the 12th to 15th August 2019 at Chilanga, Zambia. Some of the observations were that some of the resolutions were implemented; others had not been fulfilled as agreed, due to, amongst others, restrictions arising from Covid-19 pandemic. The sectors from both countries were requested to ensure that they implement all the resolutions from the 23rd session, within the stipulated timeframes.
The signing of the Extradition Treaty; the Mutual Legal Assistance Agreement in Criminal Matters; and the Memorandum of Agreement on Defence Cooperation and Military Training were signed.