President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed the solidarity, and “heroic sacrifices” made by the people of Lesotho in support of the fight for a free and democratic South Africa during the apartheid era.
The President was speaking during the 58th Lesotho Independence Day and Bicentennial Celebrations held in the Mountain Kingdom on Friday.
President Ramaphosa highlighted that the relationship between the two Southern African countries is “forged through a collective past and shared aspirations for the future”.
“I stand here today, representing my government and the people of South Africa, deeply aware of the heroic sacrifices Basotho made in support of the struggle against apartheid. Against enormous odds and at a great cost, the people of Lesotho extended a hand of friendship and solidarity. They offered refuge to our freedom fighters.
“As Basotho, you stood with our people even as the brutal apartheid armed forces crossed the border to kill and maim. We mourn the many Basotho who lost their lives alongside those of their South African sisters and brothers. We will remain forever grateful for these acts of selfless solidarity,” he said.
READ | President Ramaphosa undertakes working visit to Lesotho
Reflecting on the relationship between the nations, President Ramaphosa said it “has reached even greater heights today”.
“Both countries continue to work together in many areas of mutual interest for the benefit of our respective peoples.
“As we gather here today on this historic occasion, we extend once again our congratulations to His Majesty King Letsie III and the government and people of the Kingdom of Lesotho. Your achievements are to be celebrated with joy. A glorious future beckons for this great nation and its people.”
The President paid homage to King Moshoeshoe I, who founded the Basotho nation.
“We pay homage to his vision, his wisdom and the bravery with which he fought for the liberty of his people. He formed a unified nation that today still embodies his commitment to peaceful coexistence.
“Morena Letsie III, you have under your rule and stewardship continued this great tradition with vigour, wisdom, compassion and love of the people of the Kingdom.
“As your neighbours in Southern Africa and across the African continent, we appreciate your excellent leadership, your commitment to peace and development and your contribution to the cause of humanity,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
