Lesotho Government Responds to Trump’s Remarks on National Recognition

Lesotho’s government condemned President Trump’s remarks describing the nation as unheard of, highlighting the country’s diplomatic relations and reliance on American aid. Officials asserted the nation’s sovereignty and its role in international organizations while addressing the importance of ongoing relationships amidst budget cuts affecting health initiatives.

Lesotho’s government has expressed shock regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments asserting that “nobody has ever heard of” the southern African nation. During his recent address to Congress, Trump mentioned Lesotho while discussing budget cuts, specifically targeting an $8 million allocation for LGBTQI+ initiatives as an example of wasteful spending, which triggered laughter from attendees.

A spokesperson from the Department of Foreign Affairs of Lesotho stated that the nation maintains warm and cordial relations with the United States. Lesotho benefits from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which provides preferential trade access to promote economic development in eligible countries.

Foreign Affairs Minister Lejone Mpotjoane responded to Trump’s remarks, indicating it was shocking for a head of state to reference another sovereign nation in such a dismissive manner. He noted, “To my surprise, ‘the country that nobody has heard of’ is the country where the U.S. has a permanent mission,” emphasizing Lesotho’s active membership in the United Nations and several international organizations.

Lesotho officials characterized Trump’s comments as offhand and politically charged, deeming them inappropriate due to the nations’ positive rapport. Kutloano Pheko, a foreign affairs spokesperson, reiterated the healthy relationship, highlighting the presence of U.S. missions in both Maseru and Washington, D.C. However, Pheko could not confirm the accuracy of Trump’s funding claims, suggesting that the organizations receiving the funds would be better suited to provide information.

Minister Mpotjoane acknowledged that Lesotho has been impacted by the U.S. administration’s halting of aid funding globally, particularly following the decision to terminate the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) funding as part of a broader budget reduction effort. PEPFAR, inaugurated in 2003, has been integral in supporting health initiatives like TB and HIV programs in the country.

Nevertheless, Mpotjoane refrained from criticizing the U.S. decision, remarking that it is the prerogative of the United States to determine its aid allocation.

In summary, Lesotho’s government has expressed dismay regarding President Trump’s remarks regarding the nation, asserting its relevance and diplomatic ties with the United States. The comments have raised concerns about the potential implications for aid funding, especially in the health sector, while government officials have emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy bilateral relations despite the President’s statements.

Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk