Lesotho’s government was shocked by President Trump’s comments implying the country is not well-known. They emphasized the strong diplomatic ties with the US and the importance of aid funding from programs like AGOA and PEPFAR, which are crucial for the nation’s health initiatives. Lesotho officials have expressed disappointment but maintain a commitment to further relations.
Lesotho’s government expressed shock regarding remarks made by United States President Donald Trump, who claimed that “nobody has ever heard of” the country in a recent congressional address. While discussing budget cuts, Trump highlighted an $8 million expenditure intended to promote LGBTQI+ rights in Lesotho, inciting laughter among some lawmakers.
A spokesperson for Lesotho’s foreign affairs noted that the nation enjoys “warm and cordial” relations with the US. The country benefits from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which provides favorable trade access to certain nations.
Foreign Affairs Minister Lejone Mpotjoane found it surprising that a leader would refer to a sovereign nation in such a way, especially considering Lesotho hosts the US permanent mission. “Lesotho is a member of the UN and of a number of other international bodies,” he stated, emphasizing the country’s significance.
Officials dismissed Trump’s comments as an unintentional slip and a “political statement” that was unwarranted, given the two nations’ amiable relations. Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kutloano Pheko reiterated the cordial relationship, highlighting that both countries have missions in each other’s capitals.
Regarding the funding for LGBTQ organizations mentioned by Trump, Pheko could not substantiate the details, stating such funds are directly distributed and would be best explained by the organizations themselves.
Minister Mpotjoane noted that the country’s aid funding situation had been impacted by Trump’s decision to pause international aid, which has led to disarray among many NGOs reliant on this support. The President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR), initiated in 2003, saw cuts as part of broader government spending reductions, affecting health initiatives in Lesotho, particularly related to TB and HIV programs.
Despite the challenges, Mpotjoane refrained from criticizing the US for its funding cuts, recognizing it as the US’s discretionary power to alter aid distributions as they see fit.
In summary, Lesotho’s government reacted with surprise and disappointment to President Trump’s remarks regarding its international recognition and importance. The nation’s strong diplomatic relations with the US, as well as its reliance on US-funded programs, underscore the complexities of international aid and its implications on health initiatives. Lesotho’s response reflects a commitment to maintaining cordial relations with the United States amid the evolving political climate.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
