BY SIFISO NHLABATSI
MBABANE — His Majesty King Mswati III has called for the strengthening of relations between Eswatini and Lesotho, particularly through increased trade, cultural exchanges and bilateral cooperation.
The King made the call following his visit to Lesotho to join His Majesty King Letsie III and the Basotho nation in celebrating the Kingdom’s 60th Independence Anniversary at Setsoto Stadium on Sunday.
Lesotho attained independence from Britain on October 4, 1966, and this year’s celebrations marked its Diamond Jubilee.
Updating the nation about his journey on Monday night at Ludzidzini Royal Residence, His Majesty said it was encouraging to see the Basotho nation, royalty, government and citizens coming together to commemorate six decades of independence.
He said Lesotho had used the occasion to showcase its development, culture and plans for the future, adding that the 60-year milestone provided an opportunity for the nation to reflect on its journey while continuing to plan for its advancement.
His Majesty said the close relationship between the two kingdoms should continue to grow, noting that King Letsie III and the Basotho were among those who joined Emaswati during the celebrations of his 40 years on the throne earlier this year.
He said it was therefore important for Eswatini to reciprocate by joining Lesotho during its Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
According to the King, the two countries share historical, cultural and regional ties and belong to organisations such as the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), providing opportunities for greater cooperation.
He said the existing relationship should therefore be strengthened in various areas, including trade, cultural exchanges and other bilateral relations.
King Letsie III and Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso were last in Eswatini in April 2026 for King Mswati III’s 58th birthday and 40th anniversary of his reign.
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(Courtesy Pic)
