Libya has donated ninety six tonnes of food worth over M1 million to Lesotho government at the occasion held at Food Management Unit (FMU) in Maseru on Thursday.

Food parcels included among others maize meal, rice, long life milk, sugar, beans and cooking oil.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister in the Prime Minister's Office, Dr Motloheloa Phooko said a continued support from Libyan government to Lesotho is a testimony of close cooperation between the two countries.

He expressed appreciation to the donor for a speedy response to the Prime Minister's declaration of serious food crisis in Lesotho and appeal for assistance from the country's development partners and friends in July last year.

Dr Phooko applauded Libya for the support and assistance, assuring that the food aid will be distributed to the right beneficiaries such as orphans and vulnerable children.

Handing over food parcels, Libyan Secretary to Lesotho, Dr Yousef Algowizy said the assistance is aimed at enhancing relations between the two countries, adding that the two nations are witnessing a new era of progress and success through exchange visits as well as setting a mechanism for implementing the joint activities and programmes.

He added that his country has been playing a vital humanitarian role through assistance to countries affected by the economic crises and natural disaster in the African continent.

He commended Lesotho government for the efforts to achieve progress and find solutions for the problems that face development in the country.

Source: LENA 24/01/2008