10 Feb 2013

Botswana has assumed the rotational presidency of the Africa, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group of States Council of Ministers from February 1, says a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

As the president of the council, the release says Botswana will also be co-president of the joint ACP-EU Council of Ministers alongside the Republic of Ireland, which is currently holding the rotating presidency of the council of European Union.

The release further states that Botswana will also be chair of the ACP Committee of Ambassadors for the same period.

"The Committee of Ambassadors meets regularly in Brussels to implement council decisions and to ensure the smooth execution of the Cotonou Agreement between the ACP and EU," the release says.

The release explains that the ACP is a grouping of 79 countries which together with the 27 member EU have a special relationship which seeks to promote economic, cultural and social development in ACP states with a view to contribute towards peace, security and promotion of respect for human rights, good governance and stable democratic political environment.

"The partnership is centred on the twin objectives of reducing and eradicating poverty and integrating ACP states into the world economy."

Botswana will be expected to take leadership in the discussion of the future of the ACP Group post 2020 when the Cotonou Agreement expires, the conclusion of the negotiations of the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and preparations of the 11th European Development Fund (EDF), the release concludes. ENDS