The High Commissioner of the Republic of Uganda to the Kingdom of Lesotho, His Excellency Mr. Paul Amoru, presented his Letters of Credence to His Majesty King Letsie III at the Royal Palace earlier today. This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone in the relationship between Uganda and Lesotho, strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two sister countries.
Ambassador Amoru conveyed warm regards from His Excellency General Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda, and extended heartfelt wishes for everlasting friendship and deepened collaboration between Uganda and Lesotho.
During the presentation of Letters of Credence, Ambassador Amoru took the opportunity to extend his sincere congratulations to King Letsie III and his government on the successful general elections held in 2022. These elections serve as a testament to the maturing democratic processes in Africa, further solidifying Lesotho’s commitment to good governance and the will of the people.
The bilateral relations between Uganda and the Kingdom of Lesotho have a rich history, dating back to Lesotho’s independence in 1966. Both nations have demonstrated unwavering solidarity during the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Lesotho offered invaluable support, while Uganda provided sanctuary for ANC Freedom Fighters, highlighting the shared values and dedication to justice that bind our two nations.
Acknowledging the existing strong relationship and common ground between Uganda and Lesotho, Ambassador Amoru highlighted the active participation of both countries in various international organizations such as the United Nations, the African Union, the Nonaligned Movement, and the Commonwealth.
This participation demonstrates the commitment of Uganda and Lesotho to global progress and regional development, working in harmony with the international community.
Uganda remains dedicated to deepening bilateral cooperation and supporting the agenda of accelerating intra-African trade. As such, the country aims to strengthen Africa’s collective voice and negotiation capacity through enhanced coordination with regional and international organizations.
While trade between Uganda and Lesotho has been significant over the years, with an increase in exports from Lesotho to Uganda, there is untapped potential for further trade opportunities that will benefit both nations and their people. Cultural exchanges will also play a crucial role in strengthening the bonds between our two countries, fostering greater understanding and long-lasting connections.
Notably, Lesotho is home to a vibrant Ugandan community, with over 200 Ugandan families working in sectors such as education, health, NGOs, and the informal sector. This presents valuable opportunities for business community connections and further boosts bilateral trade and investment.
The visa-free policy between Uganda and Lesotho symbolizes the trust and cooperation between the two nations, promoting social and economic benefits from open borders. This policy enables enhanced people-to-people interactions, cultural exchanges, and increased collaboration in various fields.
Ambassador Amoru reiterated his commitment to building upon the achievements of his predecessors by focusing on promoting commercial and economic diplomacy, including trade, tourism, and investment opportunities between Uganda and the Kingdom of Lesotho.
In response to the presentation of Letters of Credence, His Majesty King Letsie III welcomed Ambassador Amoru and expressed his gratitude to His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the warm message of friendship and brotherhood. King Letsie III indicated that in previous meetings, both President Museveni and himself expressed readiness to visit each other, and the King looks forward to making the visit a reality.
Following the Credentials Ceremony, High Commissioner Amoru paid a courtesy call to the Rt. Hon. Prime Mr. Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane, where the Prime Minister graciously pledged support and expressed his enthusiasm for establishing frameworks like the Joint Commission of Cooperation to deepen and widen areas of cooperation between Uganda and Lesotho. Earlier, High Commissioner Amoru also paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Hon. Lejone Mpotjoana, and the Principal Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Thabang Lekhela.
The High Commission of Uganda in Pretoria is committed to strengthening the ties between Uganda and Lesotho, exploring new avenues of collaboration, and fostering mutual prosperity.
