In his speech made on behalf of the government in Parliament on Tuesday, the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Lesao Lehohla stated that the government of Lesotho is very impressed by the contribution made by the private businesses in ensuring that the visit became a success. He indicated that it has become a common practice that the government takes full responsibility of big national events which take place in the country but with Mr Annan's visit things turned out different because all sectors of the society shared responsibilities in receiving that important visitor.

The Deputy Prime Minister particularly thanked King Letsie III and his government for sparing their time to be with Mr Annan during his presence in the country. He also conveyed the government's gratitude to the Diplomatic Missions and the international agencies represented in Lesotho, for their support towards the success of the special visit.

About 28 private companies contributed funds making a total of  M90 500 00 to the visit and eight other companies provided necessary materials and equipment such as cars, food, blankets and others as their contribution to the visit.

03 September,2002