By: Mpho Shelile
Maseru—Lesotho extends a warm and enthusiastic welcome to the new Chinese Ambassador, His Excellency Yang Xiaokun, who arrived in the country on June 28th, 2024.
Ambassador Yang’s return to Africa, three decades after his first diplomatic mission on the continent, marks a significant milestone in the ongoing and evolving relationship between Lesotho and China.
H.E. Ambassador Yang, a highly experienced diplomat with an extensive background in African affairs, is eager to build upon the strong foundation of Sino-Lesotho relations. His arrival highlights China’s deep commitment to its partnership with Lesotho and the broader Southern African region, signifying the importance of these ties through China’s foreign policy.
In his inaugural address, H.E. Ambassador Yang expresses his deep enthusiasm for advancing the partnership between the two nations. “It is an honor to return to Africa, a continent that holds a special place in my heart. I am excited to work closely with the government and people of Lesotho to further strengthen our ties,” he declares with conviction. His words reflect a genuine commitment to fostering deeper connections and cooperation between the two countries.
Over the past two months, Ambassador Yang has taken the opportunity to immerse himself in the rich culture and diverse landscapes of Lesotho, traveling extensively across the country. Reflecting on these experiences, he remarks, “The unique landscapes and rich history of this Kingdom in the Sky have left a profound impression on me. I am deeply touched by the sincerity, solidarity, and hospitality of the industrious Basotho people.” These observations underscore his admiration for Lesotho’s natural beauty and the warmth of its people, further solidifying his resolve to enhance bilateral relations.
H.E. Ambassador Yang also emphasizes the remarkable successes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), highlighting its significant contributions to economic and trade sectors across the African continent.
“By 2022, China’s direct investment in Africa exceeds $40 billion in contracted projects. This reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering development and growth across the continent,” he states, underscoring the transformative impact of these investments.
In Lesotho, the fruits of FOCAC are clearly visible in the form of several iconic projects that have shaped the nation’s infrastructure and development landscape. The parliamentary building, National Library, Manthabiseng Convention Center, and Lesotho China Collegiate are all landmarks that stand as testaments to the robust partnership between Lesotho and China. Most recently, the successful completion of the Mafeteng Solar Power Plant, Maseru District Hospital and Eye Clinic, and the Mpiti-Sehlaba-Thebe road further exemplify the tangible benefits of this enduring cooperation.
The relationship between Lesotho and China is one of profound mutual respect and shared aspirations, characterized by extensive collaboration across a wide range of sectors. Over the years, this partnership has seen significant achievements in infrastructure development, with China playing a pivotal role in constructing key national projects that not only symbolize the strength of their bilateral ties but also contribute to Lesotho’s economic and social development.
In the realm of trade, Lesotho has reaped considerable benefits from China’s vast market and investment opportunities, leading to a substantial increase in bilateral trade volumes. The presence of Chinese enterprises in Lesotho has bolstered the local economy, creating jobs, stimulating economic growth, and opening up new avenues for business.
Education stands as another cornerstone of the Lesotho-China partnership. Through scholarships, educational exchanges, and the establishment of institutions like the Lesotho China Collegiate, China has made significant contributions to the development of Lesotho’s human capital. These initiatives have empowered countless Basotho students with access to higher education and advanced training, which in turn supports the nation’s broader development goals.
Healthcare cooperation between the two countries is also particularly notable, with China providing critical support in the form of medical expertise, infrastructure, and equipment. The recent completion of the Maseru District Hospital and Eye Clinic is a shining example of this collaboration, enhancing the capacity of Lesotho’s healthcare system and improving access to quality medical services for the Basotho people.
The Lesotho government, through the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Hon. Mpotjoana Lejone, extends a heartfelt welcome to H.E. Ambassador Yang Xiaokun. Hon. Lejone expresses profound confidence in Ambassador Yang’s ability to further solidify and enhance the longstanding bilateral relations between Lesotho and China.
“China has consistently proven to be a steadfast and reliable partner throughout our development journey,” Hon. Lejone affirms, highlighting the deep-rooted cooperation that has shaped the relationship between the two nations.
“Under H.E. Ambassador Yang’s leadership, we eagerly anticipate the exploration of new avenues for collaboration, as well as the deepening of our existing partnership. Our relationship is not just a diplomatic formality; it is a bond grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to the prosperity of both our peoples.”
Hon. Lejone further expresses optimism that H.E. Ambassador Yang’s tenure will usher a new era of cooperation, marked by innovative initiatives and projects that deliver tangible benefits to both countries.
He emphasizes the critical importance of continuing to collaborate across key sectors, including infrastructure development, education, agriculture, energy, and people-to-people exchanges, which serve as pillars of the bilateral relationship.
In his concluding remarks, Hon. Lejone underscores the significance of governance exchange between Lesotho and China. He notes that such exchanges are vital in fostering a transparent, accountable, and effective governance system, which is essential for the sustainable development of Lesotho.
“Strengthening our governance structures through shared knowledge and best practices is crucial for ensuring that all Basotho reap the benefits of our development efforts,” he concludes, reinforcing the government’s commitment to working closely with H.E. Ambassador Yang to achieve these goals.
H.E. Ambassador Yang’s return to Africa, and specifically to Lesotho, represents a positive step forward in the enduring friendship between the two countries. His extensive experience and deep connection to the continent are expected to usher in new opportunities and a renewed sense of partnership.
The Lesotho-China relationship is one that is deeply rooted in mutual benefit and respect, with both nations committed to furthering their cooperation across vital sectors for the betterment of their peoples.