Lesotho’s government expressed shock over President Trump’s comments suggesting that “nobody has ever heard of” the country. This remark was made during a congressional speech where Trump outlined budget cuts, including funding for LGBTQI+ initiatives. Officials from Lesotho reinforced their strong diplomatic ties with the U.S. and acknowledged the impact of recent funding cuts on health programs, particularly in the fight against TB and HIV.
Lesotho’s government has expressed shock at remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated that “nobody has ever heard of” the country during his congressional address. Trump’s comments were made while discussing budget cuts, including an $8 million allocation for LGBTQI+ initiatives in Lesotho, which prompted laughter among some lawmakers.
A representative from Lesotho’s foreign affairs department emphasized the nation’s positive relationship with the United States, highlighting that Lesotho benefits from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) which promotes trade and economic growth. Foreign Affairs Minister Lejone Mpotjoane condemned Trump’s comments, expressing disbelief that a leader would refer to a sovereign state in such a manner, especially when Lesotho has established diplomatic missions with the U.S.
Officials characterized Trump’s remarks as a casual political statement, asserting that they were inappropriate given the friendly ties between the two countries. They reaffirmed that U.S. and Lesotho have active missions in each other’s capitals. While the spokesperson, Kutloano Pheko, could not verify Trump’s claims about funding to LGBTQ organizations, he indicated that those organizations would best address the matter.
Minister Mpotjoane noted that Lesotho had felt the impact of the U.S. halting aid funding, particularly with programs that help combat tuberculosis (TB) and HIV, which were supported by the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (Pepfar). Despite the funding cuts, he refrained from criticizing the U.S. decision, acknowledging it as the prerogative of the American government.
The remarks by President Trump have posed a diplomatic concern for Lesotho, revealing a lack of awareness about the country on an international stage. The response from Lesotho’s officials emphasized the importance of their relationship with the U.S., as well as the detrimental effects of funding cuts on critical health programs. While there is disappointment regarding the comments, the country remains committed to fostering positive diplomatic relations with the United States.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
