Lesotho Reaffirms Strategic Partnership With China at WAICO Summit in Shanghai

The Kingdom of Lesotho has reaffirmed its strong and growing strategic partnership with the People’s Republic of China during high-level engagements held on the sidelines of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO) in Shanghai. The discussions highlighted Lesotho’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties while expanding cooperation in emerging technologies, trade, infrastructure and sustainable development. As artificial intelligence continues to reshape economies across the globe, Lesotho has positioned itself as an active participant in international efforts to ensure that AI development is inclusive, responsible and beneficial to all nations. The country’s participation at WAICO reflects its determination to embrace innovation while pursuing long-term economic growth. The engagements also reinforced the deep diplomatic relationship that has continued to develop between Lesotho and China over many years.

During the meetings, Lesotho expressed its honour at being a Founding Member of WAICO, a significant milestone that demonstrates the country’s commitment to shaping the future of artificial intelligence governance. The government commended China’s leadership in promoting an inclusive global framework for AI that encourages cooperation among developed and developing nations alike. Lesotho recognised the importance of ensuring that all countries have access to the knowledge, skills and resources needed to participate in the rapidly evolving digital economy. By joining WAICO as a founding member, Lesotho has signalled its intention to contribute to international discussions on ethical AI development, innovation and responsible technology governance. The move also creates opportunities for the country to collaborate with global experts and institutions that are driving AI research and implementation.

A major highlight of the discussions was China’s announcement of 5,000 artificial intelligence training opportunities together with the establishment of 30 Centres of Excellence dedicated to AI development. Lesotho welcomed these initiatives as valuable opportunities to build local expertise and strengthen the country’s digital capabilities. The government expressed its readiness to participate actively in these programmes by preparing skilled professionals who can contribute to national and regional technological advancement. Officials also indicated that Lesotho is exploring the possibility of establishing a regional AI hub that could serve neighbouring countries while supporting innovation across Southern Africa. In addition, the country conveyed its willingness to second experts to assist with WAICO structures, demonstrating its commitment to playing a meaningful role within the organisation.

The discussions also reflected on the successful visit to Lesotho by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in January 2026. Lesotho expressed appreciation for the visit, noting that it further strengthened diplomatic relations and expanded areas of practical cooperation between the two governments. High-level exchanges such as these continue to provide an important platform for identifying new opportunities for collaboration across multiple sectors. The January visit reinforced mutual trust and confirmed both countries’ shared commitment to deepening bilateral engagement. It also laid the foundation for continued dialogue on economic development, investment and technological cooperation.

China remains one of Lesotho’s most valued development partners, with cooperation under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) delivering numerous projects that have contributed to national development. Through this partnership, Lesotho has benefited from investments in infrastructure, energy, healthcare, agriculture and public service delivery. These projects have supported improvements in essential services while contributing to economic growth and improved livelihoods. The government acknowledged the positive impact that Chinese support has had in advancing key development priorities across the country. Continued cooperation under FOCAC is expected to create even greater opportunities as both nations seek to expand their partnership in response to changing global economic conditions.

Lesotho also welcomed China’s decision to provide zero tariff treatment for African exports, describing the initiative as a significant step towards strengthening trade and economic cooperation. Improved market access has the potential to increase exports from Lesotho while supporting local industries and creating employment opportunities. By reducing trade barriers, the initiative can help African producers become more competitive in one of the world’s largest consumer markets. Lesotho views this development as an opportunity to diversify its export base and encourage greater participation by local businesses in international trade. Stronger commercial ties are expected to complement existing development cooperation and contribute to long-term economic resilience.

Looking ahead, Lesotho emphasised that industrialisation, value addition and job creation remain central priorities for its national development agenda. The government encouraged increased Chinese investment in sectors with strong growth potential, including agro processing, renewable energy, manufacturing and digital technologies. These industries have the capacity to generate employment, stimulate innovation and enhance the country’s productive capacity. Greater investment in technology and manufacturing could also help Lesotho move up regional and global value chains while improving economic competitiveness. By focusing on these strategic sectors, the country aims to build a more diversified and sustainable economy that benefits future generations.

Lesotho also reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the One China Principle, while expressing continued support for multilateralism and international cooperation. The government underscored its belief that strong partnerships based on mutual respect, shared interests and collective development are essential in addressing global challenges. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly important to economic and social development, Lesotho sees cooperation with China as a valuable pathway for building technological capacity and expanding opportunities for its people. The country’s active participation in WAICO demonstrates its readiness to engage with global partners in shaping the future of AI governance. By strengthening its strategic partnership with China, Lesotho aims to advance sustainable development, promote shared prosperity and position itself to benefit from the opportunities presented by the digital age.