(From Beatrice Akua Asamani, GNA Special Correspondent, Gaborone, Botswana)

Gaborone, May 3, GNA - Vice President Aliu Mahama, arrived in the Botswana capital, Gaborone on Tuesday to open the Ghana-Botswana Expo 2005.

The four-day event aims at improving trade and investment exchanges between the two countries and to strengthen their cultural ties. Ghana is also seeking to use the fair as a platform to establish fruitful relations between members of the Economic Community of West African States and the South African Development Community. Ghana's Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Botswana Export Development and Investment Authority are jointly organising the exposition, which is expected to draw about 500 people, including exhibitors, investors, traditional rulers and cultural artistes. Textiles, garments and a variety of Ghanaian products are expected to be on display.

Botswana, which is the largest producer of diamonds with a vibrant economy, would also showcase indigenous products for exports. "Promoting Investment and Integration through Trade and Culture," is the theme for the event.

Mr. Kwadwo Affram-Asiedu, Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, and Mrs Naana Ampratwum, Director of Export Trade, accompanied the Vice President.