Pretoria - South Africa and Botswana are joining forces to combat the scourge of cross-border crimes between the two countries.
This emerged at the 10th Session of the South Africa/Botswana Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security in Johannesburg on Friday.
Speaking at the meeting attended by senior officials from various government departments from the two countries, Defence and Military Veterans Minister Lindiwe Sisulu said drug trafficking and other cross-border crimes posed a serious threat which needed co-operation between the two sides.
"We must establish effective channels of communications between the two countries."
Sisulu also indicated that the existing relations between SA and Botswana would be strengthened for the safety of the inhabitants of the two countries.
"We are hopeful we will deal with criminal activities effectively," she said, adding that the two countries would also work together in combating rhino poaching.
She expressed concern at the increasing levels of organised crimes at the border between the two countries.
Also present at the meeting was Botswana's acting Defence, Justice and Security Minister Edwin Batshu, who said his country would channel its energies and resources to strengthen relations between the two countries.
He said they were keen to offer any assistance needed.
He echoed Sisulu's sentiments on cross border crimes, saying they were a serious threat for the two countries.
"Security of our borders is of prime importance."
The meeting also reviewed progress made on the implementation of resolutions passed at the 9th Session held in Francistown in Botswana last year.
