Seoul: South Korea welcomed Tuesday the election of Botswana's opposition leader Duma Boko as the new president, expressing hope for further advancing the relations with the African nation under the incoming government. Boko, the opposition party candidate, was announced as the winner in Friday's election, marking a significant shift that ended the ruling party's 58 years in power since Botswana's independence from Britain.According to Yonhap News Agency, foreign ministry spokesperson Lee Jae-woong stated, "We welcome the election of Duma Boko, the leader of the opposition coalition, as the next president." Lee emphasized that the South Korean government is looking forward to developing a future-oriented, friendly, and cooperative relationship with the new Botswana government.Lee further acknowledged the efforts of former President Mokgweetsi Masisi, appreciating his commitment to a smooth transition of power, which contributes to the advancement of democratic governance in Botswana.