India, Lesotho review bilateral relations

• The sixth meeting of the Joint Bilateral Commission for Cooperation (JBCC) between India and Lesotho was held in New Delhi. 

• The entire spectrum of bilateral cooperation was reviewed during the JBCC meeting, including trade and economic, development cooperation, skilling & capacity building and cooperation at the regional and other multilateral fora.

• The next meeting of the Joint Bilateral Commission for Cooperation would be held in Maseru in 2027.

Key facts about Lesotho:

• Lesotho is a small mountainous nation surrounded by South Africa. 

• Home to over 2.4 million people, it gained independence from Britain in 1966 and remains a constitutional monarchy. 

• The King serves as Head of State with ceremonial functions, while executive authority rests with the government. 

• Its capital and largest city is Maseru.

• Before gaining independence, Lesotho was known as Basutoland.

India-Lesotho Relations

• India and Lesotho enjoy close ties of friendship and cooperation across diverse sectors, rooted in their shared commitment to enhancing South-South cooperation.

• India and Lesotho established diplomatic relations on June 8, 1971.

• The bilateral trade between the two countries is minimal.

• There are about 4,000 Indian expatriates and PIOs in Lesotho working as teachers, accountants and other professionals.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)