Lesotho’s Ambassador Mantoetsi Liteboho Mohatonyane Presented Her Letters of Accreditation
In a momentous ceremony held the week of May 19, 2025, Her Excellency Mantoetsi Liteboho Mohatonyane officially presented her letters of accreditation to His Excellency António Costa, President of the Council of the European Union, in the esteemed presence of Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. This important diplomatic event took place just days ahead of the 3rd EU-AU Ministerial Meeting, reinforcing the longstanding and growing partnership between the Kingdom of Lesotho and the European Union.
The ceremony, held at the Europa Building in Brussels on May 20, 2025, marked a significant milestone in Lesotho’s foreign relations. In her formal address, Ambassador Mohatonyane reaffirmed Lesotho’s dedication to peace, democracy, and sustainable development. She emphasized the country’s strategic focus on strengthening economic ties, encouraging cultural exchange, and fostering joint action on global challenges such as climate change.
President António Costa welcomed the ambassador with warm remarks, applauding Lesotho’s engagement in regional cooperation through the Southern African Development Community (SADC). He expressed optimism about enhanced cooperation in areas of mutual interest, particularly trade, innovation, and governance. President Ursula von der Leyen echoed these sentiments, highlighting Lesotho’s efforts in green energy and sustainable development. She pledged the European Commission’s support for Lesotho’s goals in water resource management, youth empowerment, and education.
The timing of the ceremony was especially significant, as it took place in the lead-up to the 3rd EU-AU Ministerial Meeting, set to convene on May 22–23 in Brussels. This high-level meeting will bring together representatives from all African Union and European Union member states to address key areas of cooperation, including economic growth, digital transformation, and climate resilience. With Ambassador Mohatonyane now officially representing Lesotho in Brussels, the country is well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to these vital discussions.
Ambassador Mohatonyane identified several key areas for deeper bilateral engagement with the European Union. These include expanding trade opportunities, attracting EU investment into Lesotho’s manufacturing sectors, supporting renewable energy initiatives, and increasing access to scholarships and vocational training for Basotho youth. She also underscored the importance of climate adaptation strategies, particularly for Lesotho’s agricultural communities affected by environmental shifts.
As Lesotho embraces a renewed chapter in its relations with the European Union, the presentation of Ambassador Mohatonyane’s credentials represents more than a diplomatic formality—it symbolizes a commitment to shared prosperity, mutual respect, and collaborative progress. The strengthened ties celebrated this week promise tangible benefits for the Basotho people and open new pathways for cooperation across development, policy, and innovation.
Congratulations to Ambassador Mantoetsi Liteboho Mohatonyane on this prestigious appointment and to the people of Lesotho as they continue to build strong, impactful partnerships on the global stage.
