The People's Republic of China and Lesotho maintain historical, political, economic, trade , aid , healthcare and migration connections. There is little information on the early connection between China and Lesotho, however it began in through trade. The cultural connection with migration also plays a role in their current relations.
The China-Lesotho Cooperation [ clarification needed ] is a prominent bilateral relationship, dating back to the rule of Prime Minister Leabua Jonathan. This led to economic and technical cooperation along with cultural exchange agreements between Lesotho and China. Lesotho maintained ties with Beijing, excluding the — period when Lesotho aligned with Taiwan. Trade is the original connection between Lesotho and China which began from Exports from Lesotho range from elephant tusks, believed to be superior in Chinese culture in comparison to Asian Ivory, to medicinal and perfumery exports including oil of storax.
The Chinese population in South Africa grew during the republican era — by 1, from to and a further 1, from to This resulted from the connection with consulate-general Liu Ngai, who the British government recognised as the consulate-general for Lesotho.
Lesotho and the People's Republic of China established diplomatic relations on April 30, The Tibetan unrest joined Lesotho and China together as China sought after diplomatic support. Lesotho was among several African countries that delivered said support. In an attempt to boost social development and economic growth, China has diplomatic and international cooperation's with Lesotho on both a bilateral and multilateral scale.
Through this, the Chinese-Lesotho relations can use both international and domestic markets to facilitate cultural exchange and integration, trust between the two countries and ultimately boosting capital inflows.
