Lesotho and the People’s Republic of China signed an Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation to a tune of 10 million RMB Yuan (M10 million).

The occasion took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relation offices whereby Mr. Mohlabi Tsekoa signed on behalf of Lesotho while the Ambassador of China to Lesotho Mr. Qiu Bohua signed on behalf of the government of China.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Tsekoa expressed gratitude to the government of China for its assistance, saying the signing marks a significant step forward of the existing relations between the two countries.

He said China has become a dependable partner of Lesotho, saying that the money will be directed to needy areas which will be identified jointly by the two parties.

He said development infrastructure such as roads and water supply is a challenge facing the country and the money will contribute and assist in the implementation of development infrastructure in the country.

Mr. Tsekoa said the money comes two months after the People’s Republic of China had donated M20 million, which will be used to build secondary and high schools in the mountainous areas of the country.

He said China is committed to the development of Lesotho's infrastructure as the National Convention Centre, State Library and provision of Chinese medical doctors are some of the assistance from China.

He added that China also provides trainings to Basotho as there are about 15 scholarships for Basotho to study in various fields and over 100 short courses provided to Basotho by China.

Mr. Tsekoa therefore pledged Lesotho's continued support to China.

Mr. Bohua said over a long time, China has consistently provided African countries with assistance to the best of its capacity without any political condition, adding that China will continue to help Lesotho improve her development capability.

He called upon all the Chinese firms in the country to 'work hard and shoulder more social responsibility for the development of Lesotho'.

He further stated that Radio and Television Network Expansion and Mushroom Cultivation projects will start soon in the country.

The money came at the request of Lesotho.

Source: LENA 18/12/2007