LESOTHO, BOTSWANA SIGN BI-NATIONAL AGREEMENT

The Government of the Kingdom of Lesotho and the Republic of Botswana signed the Bi-National Commission (BNC) Agreement at the ceremony in Maseru on Tuesday.

The agreement, which was signed by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs from both  countries, was witnessed by the Prime Minister Mr Ntsokoane Matekane and President Duma Boko of Botswana.

The BNC is intended to amongst others, establish a framework within which the parties may conduct their relations and to set out the modalities and institutional mechanisms of cooperation that guide the strategic partnership between the two countries. It also seeks to promote economic integration and cooperation in the field of water, mining, education and diplomatic consultations amongst others.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations Mr Lejone Mpotjoane said the BNC will reinforce relations between the two countries. “We are a family and share historic ties in the areas of education, culture and tourism” he added.

He stated that the agreement will strengthen further bonds of cooperation in geo-politics, trade, tourism and water supply amongst others, pledging that both countries will ensure the implementation of the BNC by holding it annually for the benefit of the people.

Similarly, Botswana Minister of International Relations, Dr Phenyo Butale, reiterated that the BNC will elevate the level of relations between the two countries. He highlighted that they will remain focused and ensure they account on an annual basis on what they have signed today.

Meanwhile the BNC provides for the establishment of sectoral committees across all ministries and all sectors of government consisting of senior government representatives of the parties in the various sectors of cooperation agreed upon for  the achievement of BNC objectives.

The committees will consist of amongst others, politics, defense and security cluster, the economic cluster and the social committee.

Botswana and Lesotho share strong, historical ties and maintain a cordial bilateral relationship, evidenced by diplomatic presence, trade, and cooperation on regional issues.