Think big – PM urges ambassadors

PRIME Minister Russell Dlamini has challenged Eswatini ambassadors and heads of mission to “think big” and adopt innovative strategies to attract investment and development opportunities for the country.

He said changing geopolitical realities and the reduction of international financial assistance required diplomats to rethink their traditional roles and become more business-minded in their approach.

“The geopolitical changes and the ever-decreasing financial assistance say that it is time to be innovative and think of new ways on how to maximise on the exposure the country has to potential development partners and investors through you,” he said.

He told the diplomats that the role of an ambassador had evolved beyond diplomacy and now required economic foresight and aggressive promotion of national interests abroad.

To this end, the prime minister also urged the diplomats to always carry with them at least 10 priority projects drawn from government’s Programme of Action and the country’s long-term development plans, which they could present to potential financiers and strategic partners during engagements abroad.

He stressed that national development was not solely the responsibility of government but required collective effort from all Emaswati, particularly those representing the country internationally.

“This challenge of taking this country forward is not only a responsibility of the Executive but all Emaswati, more so you who have the privilege to always interact with people who can partner with us and make a difference,” he said.

Dlamini further encouraged the diplomats to embrace technology and digital innovation to improve governance systems, institutional efficiency and communication.

He said leveraging the digital revolution could enhance transparency, strengthen responsiveness and better serve the needs of citizens.