Africa-Press – Lesotho. Warm government to government and people to people relations between India and Lesotho were cherished on Republic Day of India this Saturday. Foreign Affairs and International Relations Minister Hon Lesego Makgothi, and Republic of India Honorary Consul to Lesotho Excellency Man Mohan Bakaya, took turns in listing the two countries social, business, health, education and political engagements.
Bakaya said Lesotho’s regular support and cooperation at various multi – lateral forums based on mutual trust is much appreciated. He told a small gathering at his residence in Lower Thetsane that the development and economic partnership between the two countries were strengthened by the Joint Bilateral Commission of Cooperation signed in 2004.
Just in 2018, he revealed His Majesty King Letsie III and his family were welcomed by President Rashtrapati Bhavan of India out of the country’s strong cordial ties; Prime – Minister Dr Motsoahae Thabane and his wife accompanied by a high level delegation attended the 1st Proton Cancer Treatment Conference in India.
Meanwhile Water Minister Hon. Samonyane Ntsekele, attended International Mahatma Gandhi Sanitation Conference. He remarked: “A significant number of Indian nationals have made Lesotho a home for over decades and have amalgamated with their Basotho counterparts thus signifying co-habitation and acceptance of each other as people.
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Since independence 70 years back, he said his country has under gone great strides in achieving its current economic growth, scientific excellence and sustainable development.
Just in 2018, he listed its accomplishments as India’s first all team commando team being inducted into the Delhi Police. Its first woman fighter pilot, having Asia’s longest road tunnel built and Asia’s longest rail-cum-road bridge built.
He however admitted, “of course there is no denying that despite the progress, India has faced challenges. ” For his part, Makgothi praised India freedom fighters in the form of Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh and Bhai Patel.
He said their selfless contribution for a democratic free India will always be remembered. He said the attainment of India’s independence will always be one of the most crucial events against imperialism, with a road path leading to India as post World War 2 emerging empire was set. He stressed: “This day, heralds the emancipation of Indians from the shackles of colonialism.”
