In 2020, artist Liu Xiaoning was invited by close associates to undertake a week-long private artistic visit and cultural exchange in Botswana. Although not an official diplomatic mission, the visit received warm and respectful attention due to the artist’s distinctive creative voice and growing international recognition.

During his stay in the capital, Liu created a large-format painting inspired by his long-term focus on Tibetan themes—this is the artwork shown on the webpage. Upon completion, he was invited to a private dinner held at the presidential residence, where the piece was presented as a gift to former President Mokgweetsi Masisi.

During the dinner, the artwork was handed to President Masisi by a cultural exchange associate accompanying the visit, representing Liu Xiaoning in the presentation.

The painting, known for its expansive narrative and spiritual depth, was highly appreciated by President Masisi and was formally added to his personal collection.

Botswana is renowned globally for its rich deposits of high-quality natural diamonds and is one of the world’s major diamond-producing nations. Throughout the visit, Liu experienced the openness, hospitality, and cultural warmth of the local community—an atmosphere that provided fresh inspiration and a meaningful creative environment.

Notably, after news of the private visit and President Masisi’s acquisition of the artwork reached China, the Botswana Committee of the China Council for the Promotion of Peaceful National Reunification sent an official congratulatory letter to Liu. The letter recognized his longstanding dedication to Tibetan-themed artworks and praised the visit as a positive contribution to cultural understanding and artistic exchange between China and Africa.

Though private in nature, this journey carries significant cultural and artistic weight: Liu Xiaoning’s original work entering the collection of a former head of state marks an important chapter in the artist’s expanding international presence.