…as they mark 50 years of relations
Moroke Sekoboto
LESOTHO and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in governance, trade and investment, climate resilience, education, health, infrastructure development, youth empowerment and economic transformation.
Speaking during the Lesotho-EU Partnership Dialogue held at Avani Lesotho on Thursday, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Limpho Tau, described the partnership as one founded on mutual respect, democracy, sustainable development and shared prosperity.
Mr Tau commended the EU for its continued support to Lesotho in sectors such as education, healthcare, governance, climate resilience and economic development, as well as its solidarity during crises including HIV/AIDS, climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As we are gathered here today, we celebrate both the European Union’s conviction to global peace and prosperity and its commitment to global partnership, which we can attest to as a country. As we mark 50 years of positive and fruitful relations between Lesotho and the EU, we reflect on the progress we have achieved together and look forward to deepening our cooperation even further,” Mr Tau said.
He said, since the opening of the EU Delegation in Lesotho five decades ago, the two parties had built a partnership rooted in peace, democracy and sustainable development while addressing emerging challenges such as climate change, digital transformation and economic pressures.
Mr Tau said the partnership had fostered regular dialogue on issues of mutual interest including trade, governance, education and skills development.
“Our partnership encompasses critical areas such as education, healthcare and rural infrastructure, which have directly improved livelihoods, particularly in Lesotho’s hard-to-reach areas.
“The EU has also been a close partner in governance programmes aimed at strengthening Lesotho’s democratic foundations and ensuring that the voices of those who would normally be left behind remain central to our national development.”
He further praised the EU for standing with Lesotho during difficult periods.
“It has stood with us in our fight against the devastating HIV/AIDS pandemic, the persistent impacts of climate change and the overwhelming struggle to prevent, contain and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“All this support is greatly appreciated as it has not only signified the EU’s global responsibility, but has also provided much-needed assistance to our most vulnerable communities.”
Addressing concerns over the restructuring of the EU Delegation Network, Mr Tau clarified that the process did not mean the relocation of the EU Mission from Lesotho.
“There is a need to clearly distinguish between restructuring and relocation. Some have equated the restructuring of the EU Mission with relocation. The European Union is here to stay and this is the assurance the EU has consistently given to the Government of Lesotho.
“The EU has also assured the Government that the restructuring will not negatively affect the level of development cooperation and its delivery to Lesotho.”
EU Ambassador to Lesotho, Mette Sunnergren highlighted the shared values between Lesotho and the EU, including democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
Ms Sunnergren said EU-supported initiatives in water access, renewable energy, youth empowerment, environmental protection and governance reforms were already making a significant impact. She also announced an additional €11.7 million (about M224 million) in support for the ReNOKA movement.
“The partnership between the European Union and Lesotho has grown steadily over decades, rooted in trust and guided by shared priorities,” Ms Sunnergren said.
“Since the establishment of the EU Delegation in Maseru in 1976, our presence has evolved from a traditional development office into a comprehensive diplomatic mission. We manage a multifaceted partnership encompassing political dialogue, trade, investment and cultural exchange.”
She said the central objective of the partnership remained the eradication of poverty through sustainable development and fair trade.
“Our strategy prioritises two pillars: transforming Lesotho into a green and resilient economy, and promoting good governance and a peaceful and just society,” Ms Sunnergren said.
She reiterated that the EU remained committed to Lesotho despite the restructuring process.
“The European Union Delegation to Lesotho wishes to assure all our partners and the people of the Kingdom in the Sky that we are staying in Lesotho and remain firmly committed to supporting Lesotho’s sustainable development,” she said.
“Our partnership with the Kingdom of Lesotho will continue, and our collaborative programmes and initiatives will proceed in close cooperation with regional and national partners. We reaffirm our steadfast commitment to the people and Government of Lesotho.”