Pretoria — President Thabo Mbeki this week bestowed his best wishes upon Botswana's newly appointed President, Ian Khama following President Festus Mogae's stepping down from power.

"I avail myself of this opportunity to convey to Your Excellency, warmest greetings and congratulations on your appointment as President of the Republic of Botswana. "I trust that our relationship will extend to incorporate solutions to the challenges facing Southern Africa and the continent as a whole," said Mr Mbeki. President Mbeki indicated it was his wish for South Africa and Botswana to continue enhancing the good relations that exist between the countries for the betterment of the people, the region and the continent.

"Please accept, my best wishes for your personal well-being and a successful term of office" he said. Mr Khama held the position of Vice President when Mr Mogae decided to relinquish power before the end of his second term. Botswana's former President, who is 69 years-old, decided to step down because he felt it was time to hand over the reins of power to a new President.

The country has held a reputation for being able to change without unrest. Situated on South Africa's northern border, Botswana has one of the strongest currencies in Africa, despite its small size. The country was formerly a British protectorate known as Bechuanaland and gained its independence from Britain in 1966.

It has a population of about 2 million, is affected greatly by the HIV and AIDS pandemic, and yet has one of the most comprehensive programs to deal with the disease.