…mark 46th anniversary of diplomatic relations
Moroke Sekoboto
THE Russian Federation and Lesotho have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations and expanding mutually beneficial cooperation as they marked the 46th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties.
Speaking during celebrations to mark Russian Diplomatic Workers’ Day — the first such reception held in Lesotho — Russia’s Ambassador to Lesotho and South Africa, Roman Ambarov, said the occasion carried special significance as it coincided with more than four decades of formal relations between the two countries.
Mr Ambarov said relations between Russia and Lesotho had, since their inception, been founded on equality, respect for sovereignty and adherence to international law — principles that continue to guide cooperation between the two nations.
He described the inaugural reception of Russian Diplomatic Workers’ Day in Lesotho as the beginning of a new chapter in diplomatic engagement, expressing hope that the event would become a lasting tradition that brings together friends and partners for open dialogue and warm interaction.
“We will certainly endeavour to continue welcoming you in the future — and, of course, to delight you with traditional Russian hospitality. We highly appreciate the constructive dialogue between our foreign ministries and value Lesotho’s balanced and principled approach to international affairs,” Mr Ambarov said.
He said Russia’s engagement with Africa had been significantly strengthened through platforms such as the Russia–Africa Partnership Forum. He recalled that the first Russia–Africa Summit in Sochi in 2019 attracted more than 40 heads of state and government, while the second summit in Saint Petersburg in 2023 drew delegations from nearly 50 African countries.
Mr Ambarov said trade between Russia and African states continues to grow steadily, surpassing US$27 billion in 2024 — a clear indication, he said, of the potential to expand cooperation with partners such as Lesotho.
At the same time, he said Russia continues to support African countries in addressing pressing challenges through humanitarian assistance, including the provision of grain, fertilisers and fuel, as well as the sharing of expertise in agriculture, irrigation, livestock management and sustainable farming technologies.
“These initiatives are designed to strengthen local food security, develop agricultural capacity and contribute to long-term economic stability across the continent. We aim not only to enhance political and economic ties, but also to strengthen people-to-people relations. It is easier to do that when we understand each other’s cultures and languages.
“On this wonderful occasion, allow me to reaffirm the Russian Federation’s commitment to further deepening our friendship and expanding mutually beneficial cooperation with the Basotho people.”
For his part, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Lejone Mpotjoane, said the event marked the first celebration of Diplomatic Workers’ Day in Lesotho since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Mr Mpotjoane said Russian diplomacy in the 21st century places strong emphasis on building a just and balanced world order grounded in international law, with the United Nations at its core. He added that Lesotho shares a similar vision and remains committed to multilateralism and the sovereign equality of states.
“Our diplomatic journey with the Russian Federation began on 1 February 1980. The Soviet Union established its embassy in Maseru in 1983, which operated until 1992 and was later succeeded by the Embassy of the Russian Federation. On the first of this month, we therefore marked the 46th anniversary of these relations — built on mutual respect, cordiality and shared aspirations,” Mr Mpotjoane said.
He said Lesotho was among the African countries that attended the Russia–Africa Ministerial Conference last year, which reaffirmed that the partnership between Russia and Africa is long-term, structured and forward-looking.
“The conference emphasized several key themes: fairness in global governance, including calls for reform of institutions such as the UN Security Council and international financial bodies to ensure Africa’s stronger voice in decision-making; and economic cooperation and industrialisation, encouraging Africa to move beyond raw material exports to build industries, add value and create jobs,” he said.
Mr Mpotjoane said food security and agriculture emerged as a central theme, with commitments on fertiliser supply, agricultural technology and training aimed at strengthening production, human development and resilience through education, skills development, health systems, climate adaptation and technology transfer.
He stressed that the conference sent a clear message that Russia and Africa are partners in development, industrial growth, global political reform and technical cooperation.
“Our key take-aways included the importance of diversifying partnerships by broadening our diplomatic and economic engagements beyond traditional allies, accelerating industrial development, and promoting job creation — particularly through alignment with our national priorities in manufacturing, agro-processing and youth employment,” he said.
Another major outcome, he added, was the opportunity to strengthen agriculture and industry, build skills, enhance energy development and ensure that Africa’s voice is heard in global reforms.
Mr Mpotjoane said bilateral engagement between Lesotho and Russia remains active, particularly in foreign policy. He noted that Lesotho has supported several Russian Federation resolutions at the United Nations General Assembly, including those relating to international security, space activities and arms control.
“Russia has, in turn, extended humanitarian assistance to Lesotho, including food supplies and medical equipment. Agreements promoting educational exchanges and scientific collaboration further strengthen our ties,” he said.
He added that regular high-level meetings between officials of the two countries continue to reinforce their friendship and shared commitment to progress.
“We remain resolute in our belief that diplomacy is an instrument for peace and stability. As the world shifts towards multilateralism, this transformation must be reflected in the Security Council, where Africa — home to 1.57 billion people — must rightfully hold a permanent seat,” Mr Mpotjoane said.
