New British High Commissioner to Lesotho, Paul Boateng, says the United Kingdom will maintain its M57.5m per annum development programme in the country as well as its contribution to the European Development Fund. 

Presenting his letters of credence to King Letsie III, the High Commissioner said the closure of the Mission in Maseru does in no way mark a downgrading in relations but a necessary reprioritising of overseas posts for a more effective use of resources. 

Having supported the Government of Lesotho with the development of its Poverty Reduction Strategy, the UK development programme will help the country implement it in a two-pronged approach, support for a PRS Foundation Programme and the continuing development programme (the Priority Support Programme). 

The Priority Support Programme aims to address HIV/AIDS, job creation, food security and, governance while the Foundation Programme involves public financial management, poverty monitoring, donor harmonization and continued support to the Lesotho Revenue Authority. 

The UK would also continue its support to the Lesotho Defence Force, including training and intellectual development of the officer corps, High Commissioner Boateng said. 

The new High Commissioner takes over from Mr. Frank Martin, whose tour of duty ended in August 2005. He is based in South Africa.

20 October 2005