His Majesty King Letsie III left the country on Friday morning to attend the official opening ceremony of FIFA 2010 World Cup in Gauteng, South Africa.

He will be among the Heads of States invited by the President of South Africa, President Jacob Zuma to witness the commencement of this historic event that will take place for the first time on African soil.

His Majesty was seen off at Moshoeshoe I International airport by among others, the Prime Minister, Mr. Pakalitha Mosisili, Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Lesao Lehohla, Cabinet Ministers, Heads of Diplomatic missions in Lesotho, Principal Secretaries and other government officials.

Before his departure, His Majesty inspected the guard of honour and then took a Royal Salute.

He is expected back in the country on Friday after watching a match between South Africa and Mexico.

Invitations to the opening ceremony had been extended to guests from North and South America and 52 States in Africa.

The World Cup kicks off on Friday, June 11, 2010 and will end on July 11, 2010.

Source: LENA 11/06/2010