Closing Remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the conclusion of the Inaugural Lesotho–South Africa Bi-National Commission, 28 September 2023
Your Excellency, Prime Minister Matekane,
Ministers,
High Commissioners,
Colleagues,
We have come to the end of our bilateral discussions, which have been frank and cordial.
We remain forever grateful for the strong ties that exist between our countries and peoples. The work we have just completed is the continuation of our endeavours towards the realisation of our shared aspirations.
This Summit has been an opportunity for us to take stock of our bilateral cooperation in a number of fields. The comprehensive report that was presented by our respective Ministers captures the state of our bilateral cooperation in detail.
We emerge from this Inaugural BNC with renewed energy and vigour for the task of building our economies and developing our nations.
We should use this mechanism to enhance and consolidate the implementation of existing agreements.
We should also work more closely together to promote broader economic integration through the Southern African Customs Union, SADC and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Just as our two countries share common histories, so too do we share a common future.
Let us work together to build a sustainable, prosperous and secure future for all the people of South Africa and Lesotho.
Prime Minister Matekane, I wish to conclude by again expressing my sincere appreciation to you and your delegation, and to all involved in the planning and preparation of today’s meeting.
I thank you.
Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria