Portuguese Ambassador Presents Credentials to King Letsie III in Lesotho

On Thursday, 20 November 2025, His Excellency Carlos Costa Neves, Ambassador of the Portuguese Republic to the Kingdom of Lesotho, presented his Letters of Credence to His Majesty King Letsie III at the Royal Palace. The ceremony marked the formal commencement of Ambassador Neves’ diplomatic duties in Lesotho.

Lesotho and Portugal share a long history of cooperative and cordial relations. Diplomatic ties between the two countries were officially established on 29 March 1976. The first Portuguese Ambassador accredited to Lesotho, Manuel Rodrigues de Almeida Coutinho, presented his credentials on 24 February 1980, laying the foundation for enduring bilateral engagement.

Bilateral relations between Lesotho and Portugal continue to thrive, focusing on mutual cooperation, cultural exchange, and diplomatic collaboration. Lesotho maintains its diplomatic engagement with Portugal through its High Commission in London, United Kingdom, while Portugal covers Lesotho from its Embassy in Pretoria, Republic of South Africa.

The presentation of credentials by Ambassador Neves reinforces the commitment of both nations to sustain friendly diplomatic relations, promote collaboration, and explore opportunities for partnership in areas of mutual interest.