Africa and Lesotho, Maseru
30 October 2006
Your Excellency Minister Mpeo Mahase-Moiloa
Distinguished guests
Members of the media
Ladies and gentlemen
We are coming together today as a sign of our shared destiny that political
and cultural history that has bestowed on both our countries. I am pleased with
the growth of the relations of friendship, solidarity, good neighbourliness and
mutually beneficial co-operation between our countries and peoples. This has
established a very firm base for us to continue to work together to address the
common challenge to provide a better life for both our peoples.
Your Excellency, it was precisely because we understood the importance and
the need for us to sign a Memorandum of Understanding, which was reiterated
during your visit to South Africa in January 2006. Today's proceedings will
further enhance our interaction at the level of the Joint Bilateral Commission
for Co-operation (JBCC).
This is an initiative through which the governments of Lesotho and the
Republic of South Africa (RSA) forged a strategic partnership. Now that we have
signed this Memorandum we can forge ahead to accelerate implementation of
programmes which will lay a firm foundation for economic take-off. Policy
harmonisation and development as well as institutional capacity development
will enhance the Lesotho-RSA Regional economic integration and competitiveness
of the Lesotho economy for private investment.
In addition, Minister, we in South Africa are proud to have as a partner in
the advancement of democracy and continental unity the great people of Lesotho
who continue to be true standard bearers of African pride. Collectively
therefore, we remain challenged at all times to remain true to the critical
mission of doing everything possible to help our region and continent to
eradicate poverty and underdevelopment.
With respect to our roles in the various continental institutions, we wish
to express our appreciation for the continued commitment Lesotho has shown
towards the important task of strengthening the African Union and its
development programme, the New Partnership for Africa's Development
(NEPAD).
Let us continue to work for the strengthening of our co-operative
relationships at the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Employment
and Labour Sector. With regard to SADC, we would like to reaffirm our
unwavering support to you, as Lesotho will take the chairmanship and lead us as
we strive to speed up the process of regional integration.
The expectations of our people have been raised to higher levels. The world
is greatly moved by our common efforts. We have taken our destiny in our own
hands, creating for ourselves a continent of peace, prosperity and human
solidarity.
Let us join hands as good neighbours and as Africans to face the common
challenges that may come our way. I am confident that together we could shape a
better future.
I thank you.
Issued by: Department of Labour
30 October 2006
