King Letsie III says Lesotho has obtained tremendous achievements during the past 40 years.

Addressing the public at Setsoto Stadium on Wednesday on the anniversary of Lesotho's 40 years of independence, King explained that Lesotho managed to achieve its goals on different sectors, which include economy, education and infrastructure.

He further stated that Lesotho's economy is more or less similar to that of other African countries but it was affected mostly by the political instability that was experienced by the country in 1998.

He therefore urged Basotho to avoid political conflicts, which led to the decline in economy in the recent past.

He added that the establishment of the Lesotho National Development Cooperation (LNDC) and Basotho Enterprise Development Cooperation (BEDCO) played a significant role in the upliftment of the country's economy since job opportunities were created.

In relation to infrastructure, the King stated that a number of tarred roads connecting different parts of the country were constructed adding that Mohale and Katse Dams were also constructed under the Lesotho Water Highlands Project (LWHP) and they contributed a lot in increasing the economy as well as attracting tourists.

He further explained that the government introduced Free Primary Education  to give every Mosotho child access to basic education. He wished Basotho a prosperous life, peace, love and stability in the coming years.

Speaking at the same occasion, President Festus Mogae of the Republic of Botswana commended Basotho for maintaining peace and stability in their country adding that these two elements have a potential of boosting any country's economic growth.

He further stated that Lesotho's democratic roots are reflected as a number on expressions such as "Morena Ke Morena Ka Sechaba," translated as a chief is chief because of his subjects, adding that Botswana also celebrated its 40th anniversary last Saturday.

He said this shows that Lesotho and Botswana share a number of things that include language and culture and as result they regard themselves as brothers and sisters.

President Mogae urged Basotho to take pride in their political experience and try to move forward as a united front.

He concluded by wishing Basotho a happy and joyous 40th anniversary and pledged continued support and assistance to Lesotho both in good and bad times.

The ceremony was attended by among others; representatives of the governments of Botswana, South Africa, Tanzania, Namibia, Mozambique, Swaziland, Sierra Leon and Zambia, member of the diplomatic corps, cabinet ministers and the public from all the districts.

This was the last and third day of Lesotho's 40th independence celebration; it was graced with songs and traditional games.

SOURCE: LENA