Lesotho’s government expressed shock at President Trump’s remarks labeling the country as unknown during a congressional address. Trump’s comments coincided with discussions on funding cuts to LGBTQI+ initiatives. Foreign Affairs Minister Mpotjoane affirmed the nation’s diplomatic relations with the US, while officials noted the impact of recent aid funding reductions, particularly affecting health initiatives.
The government of Lesotho expressed shock regarding remarks made by United States President Donald Trump, who stated that “nobody has ever heard of” the nation during a congressional address. The President highlighted cuts to what he termed wasteful expenditures, specifically mentioning funds earmarked for LGBTQI+ initiatives in Lesotho, which provoked laughter among US lawmakers.
In response, a spokesperson from Lesotho’s foreign affairs department emphasized the country’s “warm and cordial” relations with the United States. They noted that Lesotho benefits from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which enhances trade access for several nations to foster economic development.
Foreign Affairs Minister Lejone Mpotjoane expressed dismay at Trump’s comments, emphasizing that Lesotho is a recognized member of the UN and other international organizations and hosts a permanent US mission. He stated, “To my surprise, ‘the country that nobody has heard of’ is the country where the US has a permanent mission.”
Officials from Lesotho described Trump’s remarks as impromptu and politically motivated, declaring them unnecessary given the historical goodwill between the two countries. Moreover, they noted the mutual presence of diplomatic missions in each nation’s capital.
Lesotho’s officials refrained from commenting on the specific funding to LGBTQ organizations, as those funds were directed to those groups. However, they confirmed that Lesotho experienced repercussions from Trump’s decision to pause international aid funding, particularly impacting numerous non-governmental organizations dependent on support from the US.
The Trump administration’s budget cuts included phasing out the US President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR), which has been instrumental in providing vital funding for health initiatives in Lesotho, particularly in fighting TB and HIV. Mr. Mpotjoane remarked that it is within the US government’s rights to decide on its aid policies and declined to criticize the cessation of support.
The remarks made by President Trump have elicited substantial concern from the government of Lesotho, which underscores the diplomatic ties existing between the two nations. While Lesotho has benefited from US aid initiatives, the recent funding cuts highlight potential challenges ahead. The response from Lesotho’s officials reflects an ongoing commitment to maintaining a positive relationship with the United States despite recent controversies.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
