APA-Pretoria (South Africa) South Africa and Lesotho have agreed to elevate bilateral ties between the two countries from a Bilateral Commission of Cooperation to a Bi-National Commission of Cooperation as a “testament to the unwavering commitment to further bolster relations for mutual benefit,” President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced.
The president announced this when he welcomed Lesotho Prime Minister Samuel Matekane on a working visit to the country to co-chair the inaugural session of the new Bi-National Commission of Cooperation in Pretoria on Thursday.
In his address at the opening session, Ramaphosa said his country attached great importance to its bilateral relations and co-operation with Lesotho.
“Our relationship is anchored in historic bonds of language, culture and heritage,” he said.
He added: “Economic relations between our two countries have grown over the years and continue to mutually benefit our respective peoples.”
Notable among these economic relations were South African businesses in Lesotho which contributed to job creation, while Lesotho’s water resources continued to benefit this country, he said.
He cited Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project as a vital development to enhance water security in the Gauteng province and other parts of South Africa.
“It is important for the governments of both countries to work together to resolve challenges faced by businesses and put in place mechanisms to ensure investments are protected,” Ramaphosa said.
Matekane said his visit was not only about strengthening ties between the two countries, but also about celebrating the launching of the Bi-National Commission of Cooperation agreement.
The economies of both countries were not only intertwined but were interdependent as well, the premier said.
NM/jn/APA