Mohalenyane Phakela
THE Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Halebonoe Setṧabi, has hailed the government of India for donating 500 tonnes of rice, saying this will go a long way in assisting impoverished communities in Lesotho.
Mr Setṧabi said this while receiving the donation from the High Commissioner of India to Lesotho, Ruchira Kamboj, yesterday at the Food Management Unit warehouse in Maseru.
The donation was first announced by the Honorary Consul of India to Lesotho, Man Mohan Bakaya, during the India-Lesotho Cultural celebrations that were held at ‘Manthabiseng Convention Centre in Maseru early this month.
“Lesotho suffered a major food crisis as a result of the recent drought, therefore, to stand in solidarity with the affected people, the government of India has donated 500 metric tonnes of rice to the Kingdom of Lesotho,” Mr Bakaya said at the time.
And yesterday, Mr Setṧabi expressed gratitude to India, saying the donation symbolised the fraternal cooperation between the two countries.
“This current donation will go a long way in helping tens of thousands of Basotho who might not otherwise have or afford food as they go through their daily lives.
“Since the establishment of our diplomatic relations our two sister countries have continued to enjoy warm and cordial bonds of friendship which include grand partnership, people to people relationships, cooperation and mutual support in the areas of infrastructure development, health, capacity building, agriculture and food security among others.
“We are also satisfied with the ongoing Joint Bilateral Commission Senior Officials meetings between Lesotho and India in New Delhi and we hope the outcomes of this important meeting will further catalyse the speedy implementation of projects.”
For her part, Ms Kamboj said her country was committed to strengthening ties with Lesotho.
“I wish to assure you that India is your friend which will never disappoint you at any given time.
“This partnership needs strong efforts to sustain and further develop so as the new High Commissioner of India to Lesotho, I am looking forward to working with Basotho,” Ms Kamboj said.
