Canada-Lesotho relations

Bilateral relations

Diplomatic relations between Canada and Lesotho date back to Lesotho’s independence in 1966. Canada is represented in Lesotho by the High Commission of Canada in South Africa, in Pretoria. Lesotho maintains a high commission in Ottawa and has an honorary consul in Vancouver.

Our countries share a long history of positive bilateral relations based on Commonwealth ties and strong bonds created through development cooperation and shared interests. A number of prominent Basotho have studied in Canada, including former Prime Minister Pakalitha Mosisili.

Trade relations

In 2022, two-way merchandise trade between Canada and Lesotho totaled $11.1 million, consisting of $0.1 million in exports from Canada, and $11.0 million in imports from Lesotho. The Canadian direct investment position in Lesotho and the direct investment position from Lesotho in Canada is not available for 2022.

Development

Lesotho benefits from Canadian support to key multilateral and regional organizations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, the African Development Bank, the African Union and others. In 2021-2022, Canada provided $9.6 million to the country in international assistance, mainly through long-term institutional support to multilateral organizations with activities in the country. Canada is helping to build the capacity of female entrepreneurs to access international markets for their products. Local organizations in Lesotho can apply for support from the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives, which has funded projects in recent years focused on gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, as well as inclusive governance.

Partnerships and organizations

To develop effective responses to today’s most pressing global challenges, Canada and Lesotho work closely in multilateral forums, such as:

Date Modified:: 2023-09-06

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