The Minister of Foreign Affairs has commended all resident foreign envoys for the commitment and contribution they made in strengthening the relations between Lesotho and their countries.

Mr. Mohlabi Tsekoa was speaking during lunch hour break he held for resident foreign envoys at Maseru Sun on Wednesday.

He said Lesotho recognises the pivotal role played by the resident foreign envoys in strengthening relations between Lesotho and international agencies and countries, adding that because of the work they have done, substantial milestone were recorded during 2007.

'The year 2007 has been a successful year in general according to several agreements that the country signed with different international organisations and agencies as well as countries', he added.

The Minister singled out the Millennium Challenge Cooperation Agreement signed between Lesotho and the government of America, which he said will enable Lesotho to develop her people through improved infrastructure and the fight against the scourge of HIV and AIDS.

He further said one of the big achievements that happened this year is the holding of successful general elections, which were declared free and fair by different international organisations.

He however noted with regret that the elections were followed by stay-aways called by some political parties, saying that stay-aways hampers the development of the country.

Furthermore, he noted 'The challenge facing the African region is to take the bull by the horns and go with the leadership that has been elected by the nation'.

Mr. Tsekoa expressed the need for the African leaders to ensure that peace and stability prevails, while the rule of law and respect for human rights continue to flourish.

On the other hand, Mr. Tsekoa, said Lesotho experienced severe drought, which forced the Prime Minister to declare a state of emergency following the food crisis.

He commended countries and agencies, which he said responded swiftly in this issue.

Speaking on behalf of resident foreign envoys, Mr. Qiu Bohua said the 2007 relations and cooperation between Lesotho and other countries went on smoothly.

He expressed hope that the good working relations with Lesotho will continue even in the next years.

He also expressed hope that the political instability in the country will be addressed, urging all political parties to sit down and solve their differences through dialogue.

Source: LENA 19/12/2007