King Letsie III Positions Lesotho as a Land of Opportunity at Expo 2025 Osaka National Day Celebration

His Majesty King Letsie III took center stage today at Expo 2025 Osaka, delivering a powerful keynote address as Lesotho celebrated its National Day at the global event. With pride and vision, the King highlighted Lesotho’s identity as a peaceful nation full of opportunity and innovation, drawing attention to the country’s readiness to strengthen international partnerships and boost economic growth.

The occasion marked a significant milestone for the Kingdom of Lesotho, offering a platform to showcase its economic potential, cultural heritage, and commitment to sustainable development. King Letsie III’s address underscored the nation’s drive to attract investment, promote trade, and strengthen diplomatic ties with global partners, particularly Japan.

The King was formally invited to the stage by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Hon. Lejone Mpotjoane, whose remarks emphasized the deepening relations between Lesotho and Japan. The event was skillfully coordinated by Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Small Business Development, Mrs. Palesa Matobako, alongside LNDC Corporate Communications Manager, Ms. Tiisetso Moremoholo, who both served as Masters of Ceremonies.

Several dignitaries added their voices in support of Lesotho’s vision. Lesotho’s Ambassador to Japan, H.E. Retselisitsoe Theko, reflected on the growing diplomatic ties between the two nations. LNDC Acting CEO, Advocate Molise Ramaili, presented economic opportunities in Lesotho’s key growth sectors, while Minister of Trade, Industry and Small Business Development, Hon. Mokhethi Shelile, spoke on government initiatives designed to attract foreign investment and strengthen small business development.

International guests also delivered encouraging remarks. Mr. Susumu Kataoka, President of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), applauded Lesotho’s proactive engagement with Japanese investors. H.E. Rintaro Ishibashi, a Member of the House of Representatives of Japan, and Mr. Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Deputy Mayor of Higashiosaka City, both expressed Japan’s commitment to deepening trade and cultural exchanges with Lesotho.

A highlight of the day was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Lesotho Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and Japanese stakeholders, represented by Advocate Molise Ramaili. This agreement marks the beginning of stronger economic cooperation and is expected to open new avenues for trade, business collaborations, and investment between the two nations.

Lesotho’s participation at Expo 2025 Osaka is part of the Kingdom’s broader strategy to position itself as an emerging economic hub in Southern Africa. The event provided an invaluable opportunity to present Lesotho’s strengths on a global stage and lay the foundation for lasting international partnerships.