The re-establishment of diplomatic relations between Lesotho and the People's Republic of China has not only brought about strong government-to-government bonds but also enhanced people-to-people relations and understanding.

Speaking during the 56th anniversary celebrations of the founding of the People's Republic of China on September 22, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Monyane Moleleki said since the re-establishment of relations, the two countries have enjoyed strong bonds of friendship and cooperation based on equality and respect of sovereign rights of each other.

Lesotho values the consistency with which the People's Republic of China pursues its principle of peaceful resolution of conflicts and common development as contained in her foreign policy, Mr. Moleleki said. 

Chinese Ambassador to Lesotho, Mr. Qiu Bohua observed that under the leadership of the Lesotho Congress for Democracy (LCD) government, the Basotho people have made remarkable progress in keeping social stability and economic growth.

Despite the severe drought and unfavourable international trade environment, the government of Lesotho has managed to implement a strategy for poverty reduction and wealth creation in the year 2005.

Mr. Bohua praised Lesotho for having played an active role in maintaining regional peace and stability, in promoting African integration and in fostering cooperation and exchanges among the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries and in the whole continent at large.

23 September 2005