Botswana has reiterated its unwavering support for the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) and its quest for self-determination, as President Gideon Boko reaffirmed his country’s stance in a diplomatic letter to Sahrawi President Brahim Ghali.
Dated February 28, the letter marked the 49th anniversary of the SADR’s declaration of independence. President Boko extended congratulations to the Sahrawi people and emphasized Botswana’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. He expressed hope that the longstanding friendship between the two nations would continue to grow for their mutual benefit.
“Sahrawi is a valued friend of Botswana, and I sincerely hope that our strong ties will continue to flourish,” President Boko wrote.
Reasserting Botswana’s position on the Western Sahara issue, he assured President Ghali that his government remains committed to supporting the Sahrawi people’s struggle for independence. “Botswana will continue to stand in solidarity with the Sahrawi people in their pursuit of self-determination,” he affirmed.
The message highlights Botswana’s diplomatic commitment to the Sahrawi cause, as the region continues to seek full sovereignty over Western Sahara. President Boko also conveyed his best wishes to President Ghali and the Sahrawi people, wishing them prosperity and reaffirming his highest regard for the SADR leadership.
Botswana has consistently advocated for the Sahrawi cause within the African Union and international forums, aligning with nations pushing for Western Sahara’s decolonization. This latest expression of support reinforces the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations and underscores Botswana’s ongoing commitment to the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination.
As the SADR marks nearly five decades since its declaration of independence, Botswana’s reaffirmation serves as a reminder of the enduring struggle for sovereignty in Western Sahara and the international solidarity backing the cause.