The Right Honourable the Prime Minister Mr. Pakalitha Mosisili, left the country on Monday for Cape Town, South Africa on an official visit.

The objective of Mr. Mosisili's visit is to hold discussion with the South African President, Mr. Thabo Mbeki, concerning the strengthening and consolidating political, economic and trade relations between Lesotho and South Africa.

Other issues expected to be discussed include the status of bilateral political and economic relations between Lesotho and South Africa.

The discussion will also focus on issues of mutual global interest including the comprehensive reform of the United Nations.

According to a press release issued by the South African department of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Mosisili will, together with South African Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, co-chair the South Africa -Lesotho Business Forum.

The release further states that South Africa has made a commitment of ensuring that two projects, the Sani Top - Mokhotlong Road and the Metolong Dam, are funded through the African Renaissance Fund (ARF). The two projects are expected to promote tourism and sustainable utilization of water resources in Lesotho.

The Prime Minister's delegation to Cape Town comprises Foreign Affairs Minister, Mr. Mohlabi Tsekoa, Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Dr. Timothy Thahane, Minister of Trade, Industry, Cooperatives and Marketing, Mr. Popane Lebesa and the Minister of Tourism, Environment and Culture, Ms. Lebohang Nts'inyi.

The Prime Minister and his delegation are expected to return on Wednesday.

SOURCE: LENA 18/06/2007